Iran Supreme Leader Makes Public Appearance Amid Ill Health Rumors

Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei (file photo)

Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei has made a public appearance amid rumors that he has been suffering from ill health.

State television broadcast images of Khamenei on March 8 addressing a group of environmental officials and activists at his residence in central Tehran.

The 75-year-old leader appeared to look comfortable and healthy in the footage but it was unclear when the footage was taped.

Foreign-based news websites in recent days have claimed that Khamenei had been hospitalized in critical condition.

Khamenei underwent prostate surgery in September and spent about a week in the hospital.

Khamenei, who has the final word on all matters in Iran, has been the country's top leader since 1989.

Based on reporting by AP and farsnews.com