US Secretary of State Marco Rubio said on Tuesday that Mojtaba Khamenei, Iran’s supreme leader, is alive and increasingly engaged in political matters. The statement is significant as it comes amid ongoing conflict and uncertainty over Iran’s leadership structure. The remarks affect diplomatic calculations involving the United States, Iran, and regional stability.
Testifying before the US Senate Foreign Relations Committee, Rubio said there are indications that Mojtaba Khamenei has become more active in decision-making. He noted that the Iranian leadership remains engaged despite the ongoing war. His comments were delivered during hearings on President Donald Trump’s foreign policy and budget priorities.
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Rubio also said sanctions relief for Iran would depend on Tehran ending its nuclear-related activities. He stressed that any easing of restrictions must be tied to verifiable changes in Iran’s nuclear programme. According to him, Washington’s position remains firm on limiting uranium enrichment and related operations.
Furthermore, Rubio outlined additional US demands, including the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz for global shipping. He said Iran must ensure safe passage for oil and gas transport and avoid targeting commercial vessels. He added that sanctions relief would only come if Iran agrees to long-term nuclear restrictions.
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The testimony comes as lawmakers in Washington debate the scope and direction of US involvement in the conflict. Some members of Congress have raised concerns about transparency and war powers authority. Meanwhile, the administration continues to argue that pressure on Iran is necessary to prevent nuclear escalation and secure a diplomatic resolution.