Secretary of War Pete Hegseth stated Friday that Iran's new supreme leader, Mojtaba Khamenei, is likely wounded and disfigured amid the ongoing U.S.-Israeli military campaign against Iran.

Hegseth made the remarks during a Pentagon briefing on Operation Epic Fury, the joint operation launched on February 28, 2026, which killed Khamenei's father, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, along with top Iranian officials. "Iran's new supreme leader is wounded and likely disfigured," Hegseth said, adding, “Who’s in charge? Iran may not even know. They can barely communicate, let alone coordinate. They’re confused, and we know it.” He vowed to show "no mercy" to the regime.

The 56-year-old Mojtaba Khamenei was appointed supreme leader on March 8 following his father's death in the initial strikes that targeted a leadership compound in Tehran. Those attacks also killed his mother, wife, and son, according to Iranian state media.

Reports of his injuries surfaced earlier this week that Khamenei suffered light leg wounds on the first day of the war, but remains active and sheltered in a secure location with limited communications. Specific injuries included a fractured foot, a bruise around his left eye, and minor facial lacerations. Israeli officials confirmed leg injuries based on intelligence.

Khamenei has not appeared publicly since his appointment, prompting speculation. Iranian state television described him as a "war-wounded veteran." He issued his first written statement on Thursday, calling for continued resistance, which fueled further questions about his condition.

Hegseth had declined to comment on injury reports during a briefing earlier this week but reiterated U.S. dominance in the conflict. The operation, now on day 13, has achieved air superiority over key Iranian corridors, with Hegseth stating Iran is "badly losing." Oil prices have surged above $100 per barrel amid the escalation.

President Donald Trump has expressed dissatisfaction with the leadership transition, stating the U.S. must approve Iran's next leader. The strikes aim to dismantle Iran's nuclear program and command structure, with over 50 top regime figures reported killed.