Khamenei Goes Into Hiding As U.S. Attack Fears Grow

Recent reports indicate that Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei has moved to a secure underground bunker in Tehran amid heightened fears of a potential US attack, following assessments by senior Iranian military and security officials, according to the Times of Israel.This information comes from opposition-affiliated sources like Iran International, which described the facility as a fortified site with interconnected tunnels.

These claims suggest he has been in hiding for at least a week, with his third son, Masoud Khamenei, taking over day-to-day management of his office and acting as the primary communication channel with government branches.

Experts have speculated that Khamenei's rule could collapse imminently if security forces falter, with some reports from earlier in the month indicating contingency plans for him to flee to Moscow or Beijing if protests intensify or his forces desert. His last public appearance or statement was on January 17, 2026, and he is reportedly avoiding contact since, communicating via couriers due to paranoia.

However, Iranian officials have denied these claims. Iran's Consul General stated that the country is "not afraid" and that Khamenei is not hiding in a bunker, emphasizing that he is continuing to hold meetings. This denial contrasts with eyewitness and opposition reports of increased security measures and his absence from public view. Some speculate his son Mojtaba is also in the bunker, positioning him as a potential successor