Amid the ongoing West Asia conflict and the continued absence of Iran’s Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei from public view, fresh reports suggest a shift in the country’s power dynamics. A report has claimed that the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) has assumed greater control, even as Iran denies US assertions of ongoing negotiations.
US Claims Talks, Iran Rejects
Earlier this week, US President Donald Trump stated that negotiations to end the Iran conflict were underway with leaders he described as “more moderate” and “more reasonable.”
However, Tehran has categorically denied these claims, dismissing any suggestion of backchannel talks.
IRGC’s Growing Influence
According to a report by Iran International, the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) has effectively taken charge amid an internal power struggle with President Masoud Pezeshkian.
The development points to a possible consolidation of authority by the powerful military body during a period of uncertainty.
Khamenei’s Continued Absence Raises Questions
The developments come as Ali Khamenei has not made any public appearance since his appointment, with no recent photos, videos, or in-person engagements.
This has triggered speculation about his health, whereabouts, and whether he remains fully in control.
Official Statements Without Public Presence
Despite his absence, Iranian state media and officials continue to issue statements in Khamenei’s name, including messages thanking allies such as Iraq.
These communications, however, have been delivered in written or read-out formats, without his physical presence.
Iran Cites Security Concerns
Iranian authorities have attributed Khamenei’s absence to heightened security threats amid the ongoing conflict involving the US and Israel.
Officials insist that he remains in Iran, is in good health, and continues to perform his duties.
A Russian envoy to Tehran has also stated that Khamenei is in the country but avoiding public appearances for “understandable reasons,” while Iran’s UN representative in Geneva described it as a precaution under “special circumstances.”
