Ali Larijani, Secretary of Iran’s Supreme National Security Council, has mocked remarks by US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth that Iranian leaders are hiding “like rats,” saying Iran’s officials remain among the public.

In a post on X, Larijani pointed out that several senior Iranian figures, including President Masoud Pezeshkian, appeared publicly at a rally in Tehran, The Caspian Post reports.

“Mr. Hegseth! Our leaders have been, and still are, among the people. But your leaders? On Epstein’s island!” Larijani wrote.

Mr. Hegseth! Our leaders have been, and still are, among the people. But your leaders? On Epstein's island! https://t.co/iywavTegyv pic.twitter.com/rxFhzsWoq5

— Ali Larijani | علی لاریجانی (@alilarijani_ir) March 13, 2026

The comment referenced the late convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, who was known for his connections with a number of influential figures in the United States.