Iran's missile strikes cause widespread damage in Israel
Iranian state media reported that early morning missile strikes targeted key Israeli military and intelligence facilities, including the Israeli army’s Command and Intelligence (IDF C4I) headquarters and a military intelligence camp located in the Gav-Yam Technology Park, near Soroka hospital in Be’er Sheva.
According to the Islamic Republic News Agency (IRNA), the military infrastructure was the “precise and direct target” of the attack, with the hospital sustaining only minor damage from the resulting shockwave.
The strikes, which hit four locations across Israel, caused significant destruction, particularly in the Gush Dan area, encompassing greater Tel Aviv.
One building in Holon reportedly collapsed, and another structure near Soroka hospital – a major medical facility treating injured soldiers amid the ongoing Gaza conflict – suffered heavy damage.
Medical crews are urging the public to avoid the impact site as they search for individuals potentially trapped under debris. Initial reports indicate up to 47 people injured, though numbers may rise as assessments continue.
Israeli political commentator Ori Goldberg, speaking to Al Jazeera from Tel Aviv, described the attacks as striking at the “heart” of Israel, disrupting a sense that the government was regaining control.
He noted the proximity of sensitive military installations to civilian areas, including near Soroka hospital, and criticided the heavy censorship limiting information access for Israeli citizens.
“There are basically rumours and reports being released gradually, but it’s clear that the Iranians struck and struck in important and significant places,” Goldberg said.
Iran iterates warning US
Iran’s Deputy Foreign Minister Kazem Gharibabadi warned the United States against direct military intervention, stating that while Iran does not seek to expand the conflict, it is prepared to “teach aggressors a lesson” if provoked.
He emphasised that Iran’s military has “all necessary options on the table”.