What rats do’: US says Iranian leaders hiding as leaders appear in Tehran

In March 2026, U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth claimed Iranian leaders were "desperate and hiding" following U.S.-Israeli strikes. This statement was made by Hegseth in the United States. However, news reports from Tehran showed Iranian President and Foreign Minister participating in Quds Day rallies. The article highlights a potential contradiction between the U.S. assessment of the Iranian leadership's behavior and their public appearances in Tehran. The article does not specify the reason for the U.S. strikes. The article's purpose is to report on the conflicting narratives surrounding the Iranian leadership's actions.

US Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth stated on Friday that Iran's new Supreme Leader, Mojtaba Khamenei, is reportedly injured. Hegseth claimed Khamenei's written public address on Thursday indicated fear, injury, and a lack of legitimacy. Hegseth also announced a significant increase in US airstrikes over Iran and Tehran on Friday. Despite Khamenei's defiant statement that the Strait of Hormuz must remain blocked, Hegseth downplayed concerns about its closure. The US pledged to continue escalating attacks against Iran.

On day 14 of the US-Israel conflict (March 13, 2026), tensions escalated as Israel launched heavy strikes on Tehran, Iran, following retaliatory attacks by Iranian allies across Gulf states. Iran's new Supreme Leader issued a warning demanding the closure of US bases in the region to halt further attacks. The Strait of Hormuz, a critical waterway for oil transport, is now closed, causing oil prices to surge. Iran claims control of the strait, banning US- and Israel-linked ships. Civilian casualties in Iran are reported to be over 1,300. Iran has also launched attacks on Gulf countries hosting US military assets, targeting oil tankers and facilities.

According to regional sources, Iran has strategically weaponized the Strait of Hormuz as a deterrent against potential attacks from the US and Israel. The Strait, a vital chokepoint for approximately one-fifth of global oil and liquefied natural gas, has been effectively closed by Iran since a conflict began on February 28, resulting in a 97% traffic decrease. This tactic, reminiscent of the 1980s "Tanker War," leverages Iran's geographical position and control over the Strait to disrupt global energy markets. Iran now possesses advanced weaponry, including missiles and drones, enabling them to threaten shipping across a wider area and quickly disrupt traffic without extensive mining operations. The strategy aims to offset military disadvantages by exploiting vulnerabilities in global energy supply chains.

Oil prices have risen above $100 a barrel due to disruptions in global energy supplies amid the ongoing conflict between the United States, Israel, and Iran, which began on February 28, 2026. The surge follows Iran's pledge to maintain the closure of the Strait of Hormuz, a critical waterway for about one-fifth of global oil supplies. Traffic through the strait has significantly decreased, with only a few vessels passing through daily compared to the pre-war average. The US President has prioritized preventing Iran from obtaining nuclear weapons over concerns about rising oil prices. Asian stock markets have declined following the oil price increase and overnight losses on Wall Street.

The International Energy Agency (IEA) warned that the ongoing war in Iran is causing the "largest supply disruption in history" for oil markets due to a blockade of the Strait of Hormuz. This disruption surpasses the crises following the Yom Kippur war and the war in Ukraine. Iran's new supreme leader called for the vital trade artery to remain closed, further escalating the situation. In response, global oil prices surpassed $100 a barrel. The IEA ordered a historic release of 400 million barrels of emergency crude, with the US contributing 172 million barrels from its strategic petroleum reserve. Despite these efforts, oil prices remain volatile, and global stock markets have reacted negatively to the escalating conflict.

Despite the International Energy Agency's (IEA) plan to release 400 million barrels of oil, the largest emergency reserve release in history, global oil prices continue to surge. The IEA's action, announced on Wednesday, aimed to stabilize prices amid the ongoing war between the United States, Israel, and Iran. However, Brent crude rose about 15% and oil prices hovered around $100 a barrel on Thursday. Analysts suggest the release will have a limited impact if the Strait of Hormuz remains effectively closed, disrupting about one-fifth of the global oil supply. Iran has threatened to block oil passage through the strait, potentially driving prices to $200 a barrel, following attacks on commercial ships in the region.

Despite the International Energy Agency's (IEA) agreement to release a record 400 million barrels of oil reserves, Brent crude prices surged to $100 a barrel in Asia trading. The IEA's move, involving all 32 member countries, aimed to address supply concerns amid heightened tensions. Iran warned that oil prices could reach $200 a barrel if its attacks on ships intensify in the Strait of Hormuz, a crucial waterway for global energy shipments. The rising oil prices have led to increased fuel costs worldwide, with the US average petrol price exceeding $3.50 a gallon. Asian countries like the Philippines, Thailand, and Vietnam are particularly affected, experiencing long queues at petrol stations. In response, some countries are implementing measures like four-day work weeks and work-from-home policies to conserve energy.

Amidst ongoing conflict between the US and Iran in March 2026, the Strait of Hormuz remains blocked, causing rising oil prices. US Energy Secretary Chris Wright stated the US military is currently "not ready" to escort oil ships through the Strait, as military assets are focused on dismantling Iran's offensive capabilities. This contradicts earlier suggestions that the US Navy would provide escort. Iran's new Supreme Leader, Mojtaba Khamenei, has declared the Strait should remain closed as a defensive tactic. The Iranian military has indicated it is prepared to engage US forces in the Strait.

In his first statement since succeeding his father, Iran's new supreme leader, Mojtaba Khamenei, vowed to keep the Strait of Hormuz closed. Khamenei stated that blocking the Strait, a vital waterway for global oil supplies, "must definitely be used." He also demanded the United States close all its bases in the region. The statement, broadcast on state television on Thursday, follows the death of his father at the start of the US-Israel war against Iran. The Strait of Hormuz is a strategic location through which approximately one-fifth of the world's oil supply passes.

In March 2026, Iran's newly appointed Supreme Leader, Mojtaba Khamenei, released his first public statement. The statement addressed the ongoing conflict involving the US and Israel. Khamenei declared that Iran would maintain the closure of the Strait of Hormuz. He further threatened to initiate new fronts in the conflict if the US and Israel continued their military actions. The statement signals a potentially escalating role for Iran in the existing war. The reasons behind the threat were cited as a response to the continued war efforts of the US and Israel.

Amidst the ongoing US-Israeli war on Iran in March 2026, the Iranian Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) declared it would block all oil tankers from passing through the Strait of Hormuz, a critical waterway for global oil supplies. The IRGC warned that any vessel linked to the US, Israel, or their allies would be considered a legitimate target. This action, coupled with production slowdowns in some Gulf countries, has roiled global energy markets. The IRGC anticipates oil prices to reach $200 per barrel, despite the release of 400 million barrels from global reserves. The closure of the Strait, through which about one-fifth of the world’s oil transits, and attacks on ships in the area have exacerbated concerns about further disruptions and rising prices.

The International Energy Agency (IEA), comprised of 32 member countries, is preparing to release 400 million barrels of oil from its stockpiles. This marks only the fifth time in the IEA's history that it has taken such action. The move is intended to alleviate pressure on global oil prices, which have been affected by geopolitical events such as the conflict in Iran. The IEA was originally formed in response to the 1970s oil crisis to mitigate the impact of disruptions in the oil market. However, there is no certainty that this release will successfully lower prices.

Amid rising tensions over oil shipments, the US military attacked and destroyed 16 Iranian mine-laying vessels near the Strait of Hormuz. This action followed reports that Iran had begun laying mines in the strategically important waterway, through which about one-fifth of the world's oil passes. The US military released footage of the attacks shortly after Donald Trump demanded the removal of any Iranian mines in the Strait. Oil shipments have been blocked since US-Israeli strikes on Iran 11 days prior, causing market volatility, further exacerbated by a retracted social media post from the US energy secretary claiming a successful US Navy escort of an oil tanker through the Strait. Iran has threatened to stop any movement of the US fleet and its allies in the region.

The article reports on the US-Israeli military campaign against Iran, highlighting the Trump administration's inconsistent messaging regarding the war's timeline and objectives. Over the past 10 days, President Trump has given conflicting statements about the war's progress, potential end, and ultimate goals, causing market fluctuations. Initially, Trump suggested a swift conclusion, even hinting at a possible wrap-up, but later walked back those comments, indicating a willingness to intensify strikes if Iran continued to threaten oil tankers. He also stated the goal was to prevent Iran from developing weapons targeting the US, Israel, or allies. The mixed messages have created uncertainty surrounding the conflict's future and potential political ramifications for the Trump administration.

During a press conference in Doral, Florida, President Trump addressed the ongoing US military campaign in Iran. His statements regarding the conflict's status and future goals were vague and contradictory, creating confusion about the administration's strategy. While claiming the US had "won in many ways," he also stated they "haven't won enough" and suggested the war would continue, potentially to "build a new country," despite previous statements against nation-building. These remarks followed earlier suggestions of a potential drawdown, prompted by a phone call with CBS News. The lack of clarity in Trump's statements drew criticism, with Democrats like Chuck Schumer labeling the president's vision for the conflict as incoherent. The press conference aimed to reassure allies and calm global markets amid high oil prices and regional tensions.

On March 10, 2026, some Iranians rallied in downtown Tehran to express their support for Mojtaba Khamenei. The demonstrations occurred amid speculation about his potential succession to the role of Supreme Leader. The rallies suggest a segment of the Iranian population is in favor of Mojtaba Khamenei assuming the position. The news article highlights these public displays of support, indicating a development in the ongoing discussion surrounding Iran's future leadership. The reason for the rallies is to show support for Mojtaba Khamenei as the new supreme leader.

On March 9, 2026, Iran launched new attacks at Gulf Arab countries, escalating pressure in the Middle East. These events occurred alongside internal political developments in Iran, including the announcement of Mojtaba Khamenei, son of the late supreme leader, as the Islamic Republic's next ruler. Pro-government supporters gathered across Iran to pledge allegiance to the new leader. Simultaneously, an Israeli airstrike hit Dahiyeh, a suburb of Beirut, Lebanon. In Or Yehuda, a man was seriously injured in an explosion. Funerals were held in Tehran for Mehdi Hosseini, who was killed in a U.S.-Israeli strike.

On March 10, 2026, US President Donald Trump stated that the US and Israel are nearing their war objectives in Iran and that the conflict could end soon. This announcement comes as US and Israeli forces continue their bombardment of Iran. Simultaneously, large gatherings have occurred throughout Iran in support of the newly appointed Supreme Leader, Mojtaba Khamenei. The ongoing conflict involves the US, Israel, and Iran, with the US and Israel conducting attacks while Iranians rally in support of their new leader. The reasons behind the conflict and the specific objectives of the US and Israel were not detailed in this report.

The US and Israel launched airstrikes on targets across Iran on Monday, marking an escalation in the ongoing Middle East conflict, now in its second week. These strikes coincided with Iranian missile and drone attacks targeting Israel, US bases in the Middle East, and Gulf energy infrastructure. The attacks and counter-attacks occurred as large crowds gathered in Tehran to support Mojtaba Khamenei, Iran's newly appointed supreme leader. The reason for the strikes is the ongoing conflict between the involved nations. The strikes and public support for the new leader signal a deepening crisis in the region.

Following a weekend of escalating conflict in the Middle East, Mojtaba Khamenei has assumed leadership in Iran, succeeding his late father. This transition occurs as oil prices surpass $100 a barrel and regional casualties mount. Over the weekend, both sides struck new targets, including civilian infrastructure, with Bahrain accusing Iran of attacking a desalination plant and Israel targeting oil depots in Tehran. The US reported another soldier's death, and Saudi Arabia announced its first fatalities. The conflict, now in its tenth day, has displaced over half a million people in Lebanon and resulted in hundreds of deaths there, with Israel warning of a prolonged war.

The U.S. and Israel continued their military campaign against Iran as of March 7-8, 2026, resulting in attacks on Tehran, Iran, and airstrikes in Sir al-Gharbiyeh village in south Lebanon. The conflict has led to casualties, including the death of a U.S. Army Reserve soldier in Kuwait. The remains of the soldier were returned to the U.S. at Dover Air Force Base. Iran has appointed a new commander for its war strategy and named a son of its late supreme leader as his successor, a move criticized by U.S. President Donald Trump. The Revolutionary Guard has pledged allegiance to the new commander. The ongoing conflict has also caused oil prices to surge above $100 a barrel.

Following the death of Iran's Supreme Leader, top clerics selected Mojtaba Khamenei as his successor. This decision occurred despite prior warnings from former U.S. President Trump deeming Khamenei "unacceptable." The selection signals a continuation of the existing political direction in Iran. Simultaneously, global oil markets reacted strongly to the ongoing war, with prices reaching their highest levels since the pandemic began. The price surge reflects increasing concerns about the potential for a protracted conflict and its impact on oil supplies. The events highlight a period of political transition in Iran amidst international tensions.

Following the death of Ayatollah Ali Khamenei in US-Israeli strikes, Mojtaba Khamenei was appointed Iran's new Supreme Leader on Sunday, March 9, 2026, by the Assembly of Experts. The appointment of Khamenei, a mid-ranking religious scholar with ties to the IRGC, signals continuity amid the ongoing US-Israeli war. Support for Khamenei's leadership came swiftly from within Iran's political and security establishment, as well as from Oman and Iraq. Oman's Sultan Haitham bin Tariq Al Said sent congratulations, while Iraq's Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani expressed confidence in Khamenei's ability to manage the current challenges. The US and Israel have responded to the appointment with threats.

Reports indicate Mojtaba Khamenei, son of Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, has been selected as the new leader of the Islamic Republic. Experts warn that Mojtaba's rule could be even more hardline than his father's, potentially intensifying the existing power structure. He has built influence through security institutions rather than traditional clerical authority. Some sources suggest that earlier hopes for reform under Mojtaba are unlikely, as his appointment was reportedly secured with the support of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC). Former President Trump expressed his disapproval of the succession but declined to reveal potential U.S. responses.

On March 9, 2026, global oil prices surged past $100 a barrel, exceeding a 20% increase, due to the ongoing war between the United States, Israel, and Iran. Brent crude reached over $114 a barrel before settling around $107.50. The conflict, which began with US and Israeli strikes on Iran on February 28, has disrupted global energy supplies, with Iran halting shipping in the Strait of Hormuz, a key oil transit route. In response, Iraq, the UAE, and Kuwait, major OPEC producers, have cut production. US President Trump dismissed concerns, predicting a rapid price drop after the conflict ends, while the Energy Secretary called any price increases temporary.