A widely shared photograph of Ayatollah Mojtaba Khamenei was created or altered using Google AI [1, 2].

The image has sparked significant interest because Mojtaba Khamenei, the son of Iran's supreme leader Ali Khamenei, has not appeared in public since Feb. 28, 2024 [1, 2].

The photograph began circulating in Iranian media and across various social-media platforms following a U.S.-Israeli attack on Feb. 28, 2024 [1, 2]. That specific military action resulted in the death of Mojtaba Khamenei's father and other family members [1].

Analysis of the image indicates it was likely generated to depict the cleric during a period of prolonged absence from the public eye. The use of generative AI to simulate the appearance of high-ranking officials can create false narratives regarding their health or whereabouts, especially during times of regional instability.

Contradictory reports have surfaced on social media regarding the status of the Iranian leadership. Some users shared AI-generated videos falsely depicting a funeral for Ali Khamenei, suggesting he was killed in the February strikes [2]. Other reports mentioned a mystery man in clerical robes appearing at such a funeral [2].

However, fact-checking efforts have clarified that there are no verified reports stating Ali Khamenei was killed in the attack [2]. The focus of the verified AI manipulation remains the image of his son, Mojtaba Khamenei [2].

“A widely shared photograph of Ayatollah Mojtaba Khamenei was created or altered using Google AI”

The circulation of AI-generated imagery involving the Khamenei family highlights the vulnerability of information ecosystems during geopolitical crises. By filling a visual vacuum left by Mojtaba Khamenei's absence, these images can be used to speculate on succession or leadership stability in Iran, demonstrating how synthetic media can be weaponized to create plausible but false political narratives.