• The area close to Iran's Assembly of Experts building in Tehran was reportedly struck, according to witnesses speaking to Reuters.
  • This comes as the Assembly faces the critical task of selecting a new Supreme Leader following Ali Khamenei's death during ongoing US-Israeli military operations.
  • The combined campaign, which began on February 28, has established air superiority over Tehran and western Iran, targeting military and government infrastructure.

Witnesses reported to Reuters that the area near the Assembly of Experts building in Tehran was hit, though specific details about damage or casualties remain unconfirmed. The Assembly, a clerical body constitutionally mandated to appoint Iran's Supreme Leader, finds itself at the center of a profound political crisis following the death of Ali Khamenei in the early stages of the military campaign.

"The body will make its decision based on religious criteria rather than political factions," one Assembly member was quoted as saying on March 2, adding that the selection process "would not take long." However, analysts caution that Tehran may delay formally appointing a successor during wartime, as any new leader would immediately become a high-value military target for the US-Israeli forces.

Efforts to restructure Iran's chain of command have proceeded despite the leadership vacuum, with military operations continuing through decentralized channels. Iranian forces have launched missile and drone attacks across the Persian Gulf region targeting US bases and allied states, while officials have threatened to disrupt shipping through the Strait of Hormuz—a critical chokepoint for global oil supplies.

Without a clear succession plan, Iran's governing institutions face mounting pressure. The military campaign has progressively targeted Iranian air defenses, internal security apparatus, and now appears to be striking near key political bodies. According to people familiar with the matter, the Assembly had been convening to discuss the succession process when the reported strike occurred.

Market reactions have been immediate, with oil prices climbing nearly 4% in early trading as traders priced in increased geopolitical risk. The situation remains fluid, with US President Trump indicating the campaign could extend beyond the initially projected four to five weeks. Attempts to reach Iranian officials for comment on the reported strike were unsuccessful.

This article has been updated to clarify that witnesses reported a strike near the Assembly building, not necessarily directly targeting the structure itself.