Tensions in the Middle East escalated sharply on Tuesday after Israel launched an airstrike targeting the building that houses Iran’s powerful Assembly of Experts in the holy city of Qom.
According to regional and international reports, the strike occurred while members of the 88-cleric body were convening amid a sensitive leadership transition process. The Assembly of Experts is constitutionally responsible for appointing Iran’s supreme leader, making it one of the most influential institutions in the Islamic Republic.
The development comes in the wake of the reported death of Iran’s long-time Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, whose passing created a significant power vacuum in the country. The assembly had reportedly gathered to deliberate on the selection of his successor.
Israeli officials have not released detailed operational specifics, but sources familiar with the matter indicated that the strike was intended to disrupt Iran’s leadership transition. There has been no immediate independent confirmation regarding casualties among assembly members, and Iranian authorities have yet to provide a full assessment of damage or injuries.
The strike marks one of the most direct attacks on Iran’s core political institutions in recent history and represents a major escalation in the ongoing confrontation involving Israel, Iran, and the United States.
Political analysts warn that targeting a body central to Iran’s constitutional structure could further inflame regional tensions and complicate any prospects for diplomatic de-escalation. The situation remains fluid, with global leaders closely monitoring developments amid fears of broader instability across the Middle East.
More details are expected as official statements emerge from Tehran and Jerusalem.
