Delhi, New Delhi, India:  "When war begins, the first casualty is the truth," American Senator Hiram Johnson famously remarked during World War I. The statement appears increasingly relevant amid the ongoing conflict in the Middle East, where conflicting reports and speculation have surrounded the health and whereabouts of key leaders.

Recent developments in the escalating tensions between Israel and Iran have triggered widespread speculation about Iranian leader Mojtaba Khamenei and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. Both leaders have not appeared publicly since the conflict intensified, fueling rumors across international media and social platforms.

Questions Surround Mojtaba Khamenei's Condition

Reports circulating online claim that Mojtaba Khamenei, who assumed leadership after the death of his father Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, may have been severely injured in Israeli and US airstrikes. Some analysts suggest he could be in critical condition.

Iranian state television previously acknowledged that Khamenei had been injured during the attacks. Meanwhile, British newspaper The Sun reported that he may be in a coma following severe injuries, including damage to internal organs.

According to the report, security forces have taken control of the hospital where he is reportedly receiving treatment. Despite these claims, Iranian government officials have strongly denied reports of his death.

Iranian authorities released a statement attributed to Khamenei on Thursday, asserting that he remains alive. However, critics question why the leader has not appeared in a live video to reassure the public.

Former US President Donald Trump, speaking in an interview with Fox News, stated that Khamenei is alive but "badly damaged." US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth also suggested that the Iranian leader had suffered serious injuries.

Speculation Over Netanyahu's Whereabouts

Similar questions have emerged regarding Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. Iranian media outlets, including Tasnim News Agency and Press TV, reported that Netanyahu's bunker was damaged during retaliatory strikes.

Netanyahu last appeared in a recorded message on February 28, the first day of the Israeli attack on Iran. Another video was released on March 7 praising the Israeli military, though critics suggested the footage might have been pre-recorded.

On March 12, Netanyahu addressed the media through a video conference. However, some observers questioned the authenticity of the broadcast. Reporters asking questions were not visible on screen, and only their voices were heard.

Several online commentators also claimed irregularities in the video, including visual distortions in Netanyahu's hand movements, which led some to speculate that the footage may have been artificially generated. However, Israeli officials have not commented on these claims.

During the virtual press interaction, air-raid sirens were heard in Israel. Observers noted that Netanyahu continued speaking without reacting to the alarm.

Explosions Near Tehran Rally

Meanwhile, explosions were reported near the Central Square area of Tehran, where thousands had gathered for the annual Quds Day rally in support of Palestinians.

Iranian officials said the rally was attended by senior leaders including Supreme Security Council Secretary Ali Larijani and judiciary chief Gholam Hossein Mohseni. Participants called for an end to Israeli military actions.

Israel reportedly issued warnings urging civilians to evacuate the area shortly before explosions occurred nearby. Thick black smoke was seen rising from the site, though authorities reported no casualties.

Regional Escalation

The conflict continues to spread across the region.

Israeli strikes in Lebanon killed eight people and injured nine others on Friday. Lebanese officials said the total death toll from recent attacks has reached 773, with more than 1,900 people injured.

In Bahrain, missiles and drones reportedly targeted the US Navy's Fifth Fleet base. Iran's Revolutionary Guard claimed responsibility for the attack, stating it had damaged drone hangars and defense systems.

Saudi Arabia announced it had intercepted more than 50 drones launched by Iran across its airspace.

In Iraq, a drone strike on Erbil airport and a nearby military base killed one French soldier and wounded six others, according to French President Emmanuel Macron.

Explosions were also reported near the Burj Khalifa area in Dubai following Iranian drone activity, though authorities confirmed there were no casualties.

Separately, UAE authorities arrested a 60-year-old British tourist accused of filming drone strikes and missile launches. Under UAE law, unauthorized filming of military incidents can carry a prison sentence of up to two years.

Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has pledged support to Saudi Arabia amid the escalating crisis and held talks with Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman in Jeddah.

As the conflict intensifies, uncertainty and competing narratives continue to cloud the true situation on the ground.