Iranian Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei took part on Saturday in a religious ceremony amid rumors about his deteriorating health. Khamenei’s official website released photos of his attendance of an Arabeen religious ceremony with university students in Tehran. He delivered a seven-minute speech at the event, according to a recording released on the website. It was his first public appearance since reports about his poor health emerged. He was last seen in public on September 3 when he met participants of a religious conference hosted by Iran. The New York Times had reported on Friday that Khamenei has been under strict medical observation after cancelling several meetings last week, according to four people familiar with his health situation. Khamenei, 83, had surgery sometime last week for bowel obstruction after suffering extreme stomach pains and high fever, one of the people said. Khamenei underwent the surgery at a clinic set up at his home and office complex and is being monitored around the clock by a team of doctors, the person familiar with the operation said. His condition was considered critical last week but has improved, and he is currently resting, the person said.