Who is Ali Khamenei: In the midst of the ongoing Hamas-Israel war, Irans Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, has been playing a critical yet concealed role, orchestrating a narrative of triumph. While Iran launched over 180 ballistic missiles at Tel Aviv, Khamenei hailed it as a victory from God — all from the safety of a hidden bunker. This isnt the first time he has claimed victory through rhetoric rather than action. His strategy raises questions about his influence and the psychological games he plays in the geopolitical arena.Psychological warfare or military strategyIrans missile strikes have pushed Israel into a state of high alert, but Khamenei has chosen a more insidious battlefield — the mind. While Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu promises a powerful retaliation, Khamenei uses words to wage his war. Declaring victory on social media and promoting Hezbollah as triumphant, Khameneis approach is a calculated psychological ploy to undermine Israels confidence.Despite being absent from the frontline, Khameneis rhetoric has resonated, particularly on platforms like X (formerly Twitter), where he publicly broadcasts messages of strength. His physical absence in military confrontations has been overshadowed by his mental warfare, turning perception into a powerful weapon. But how does this figure, hailed by some as a strategist, and by others as a dangerous maniac, maintain such influenceKhameneis rise to powerBorn in 1939 into a clerical family, Khamenei rose through the political ranks of Iran, succeeding Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini in 1989. His ascent was not without opposition many clerics deemed him unfit for leadership. Yet, he has emerged as a central figure in Iranian politics, extending his influence beyond the Middle East.Khamenei survived several assassination attempts, further solidifying his reputation as a resilient and determined leader. Today, his strategies extend well beyond Irans borders, shaping regional conflicts like the current Israel-Hamas war.Geopolitical mind gamesKhameneis tactics are rooted in more than just military action. His public statements against Israel, such as labeling it an illegitimate regime and a cancerous tumor, are not merely inflammatory they are part of a psychological narrative aimed at uniting Irans allies and sowing discord among Israels supporters. This rhetoric bolsters Irans image as a leader of resistance in the region, particularly among groups like Hezbollah and Hamas.In addition to verbal assaults, Khamenei has opposed peace talks and normalization efforts between Israel and Arab states, branding them as acts of betrayal. His unwavering stance against these diplomatic gestures underscores his commitment to perpetuating conflict rather than seeking resolution, positioning Iran as a steadfast opponent of Israels existence.Khameneis use of state media and propagandaKhamenei has also employed state media as a tool in his psychological warfare, broadcasting anti-Israel narratives to influence public opinion. This propaganda aims to galvanize support for Irans foreign policy and bolster the image of resistance. By creating a climate of anxiety and instability, Khamenei seeks to undermine Israels legitimacy on a global scale, all while avoiding direct military confrontation.Will Khameneis mind game favor him in warWhile Khamenei engages in psychological warfare, Israels Prime Minister, Benjamin Netanyahu, is preparing for a more tangible response. Netanyahu, known for his strategic acumen, will not easily fall into Khameneis trap. The ongoing conflict between Iran and Israel is as much about the battle of minds as it is about missiles and soldiers. But with Netanyahu at the helm, Khameneis mind games may not be enough to secure a lasting victory.
