Washington: US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth says Iran's new supreme leader is wounded and likely disfigured. Hegseth spoke Friday, a day after Supreme Leader Ayatollah Mojtaba Khamenei released a written statement vowing to continue the war. It was Khamenei's first statement since he assumed Iran's top office after the death of his father in an Israeli strike.

According to France24.com, the situation in Iran remains tense following the leadership change and the ongoing conflict. Ayatollah Mojtaba Khamenei's recent statement underscores the continuation of hostilities despite his injuries. The circumstances surrounding his injuries have not been disclosed, but the impact on Iran's political and military strategies is being closely monitored.

US officials, including Hegseth, are keeping a close eye on developments in Iran, as the conflict has significant implications for regional stability. The international community is urged to remain vigilant as the situation unfolds, with concerns about potential escalations.