Is Mojtaba Khamenei Alive? Marco Rubio Reveals New Details On Iran’s Supreme Leader

Washington: Once again a big discussion has started regarding the politics of Iran. US Secretary of State Marco Rubio has claimed that Iran's supreme leader Mojtaba Khamenei is alive and his activity in important matters of the country has increased in recent times. His statement has come at a time when talks between America and Iran regarding the nuclear program are not progressing.

What did Rubio say?

Speaking before the US Senate Foreign Relations Committee, Marco Rubio said that there are many indications that Mojtaba Khamenei is now playing a more active role than before. Although he did not share much information, he did say that his participation in the decision-making process within Iran seems to be increasing.

Were many questions raised after the attack?

On February 28, there were reports of Mojtaba Khamenei being injured during a joint military operation between America and Israel. His father and former supreme leader of Iran Ali Khamenei was also claimed to have died in the same attack. Since then there was constant speculation about his condition.

Is Talk still stuck on nuclear deal?

Rubio said the US still hopes for a deal with Iran, but for this Tehran will have to accept tough conditions on its nuclear programme. He says that unless Iran limits uranium enrichment activities, it is difficult to get relief from sanctions.

Are conditions also placed on Strait of Hormuz?

The US Secretary of State said that Iran will have to guarantee that the Strait of Hormuz will be completely safe and open. He said that attacks on merchant ships should be stopped and no pressure should be put on ships passing through the sea route.

Rubio also said the United States could help remove mines laid in the strait if Iran cooperates.

What needs to be done to lift the ban?

Rubio's point is simple: these sanctions are imposed on Iran because of its nuclear program, and they will not be lifted until that issue is resolved. Only if Iran accepts strict monitoring of its nuclear programme.

What will happen next?

For now, talks between America and Iran have almost come to a standstill. But this does not mean that the door is completely closed. There is still scope for diplomacy. The real question is whether both sides will show the will to move toward a new agreement or whether things will get worse. This will be decided in the coming days.