Rubio Tells Congress Iran's Mojtaba Khamenei Is Alive and Increasingly Active as U.S. Seeks Concessions

Secretary of State Marco Rubio told Congress on Tuesday that Iran’s Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei is alive and increasingly engaged at some level. Rubio spoke during testimony before lawmakers. He said he believes Khamenei is alive and “increasingly engaging,” according to multiple reports of the hearing.

Rubio also reiterated the administration’s position on the Strait of Hormuz. He stated that the United States remains dedicated to reopening the waterway and to securing necessary concessions from Iran during negotiations. The testimony came as the administration continues diplomatic efforts tied to the strait.

Rubio’s remarks on Khamenei addressed questions about the Iranian leader’s status. No further details on the timing or location of the testimony were provided in the reports.