U.S. Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth intensified diplomatic friction on March 13, 2026, by describing Iran's newly appointed Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei and other officials as 'rats' during a press briefing. The remarks followed unverified claims about Khamenei sustaining injuries and alleged disarray within Iran's leadership structure.
Iranian authorities acknowledged the Supreme Leader experienced "light injuries" but emphasized his continued active governance. Analysts suggest the exchange reflects escalating U.S.-Iran tensions following recent regional security disputes and stalled nuclear negotiations.
Global markets showed muted reactions to the rhetoric, though energy sector observers note potential risks to Middle Eastern stability. The incident coincides with renewed APEC member discussions about regional security frameworks ahead of April's APEC Leaders’ Meeting in Jakarta.
