The Ephemeral Nature of Power in Tehran The release of an undated video by Iran's semi official Mehr News agency showing Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei appearing to be in good health has raised more questions than it answers about his true state of health and the nature of power in Tehran.
This latest development is merely the latest chapter in a long running saga of speculation, rumor, and official denials that have characterized Iran's leadership transition over the past year.
The video itself is significant not because of its content, which shows Khamenei sitting at a desk with a bland backdrop, but because it represents an attempt by the Iranian government to preempt growing speculation about his health.