Iranian missiles strike Arad and Dimona near Israel's nuclear facility
Iranian missiles strike Arad and Dimona near Israel's nuclear facility
Missile strikes hit Arad and Dimona near Israel's main nuclear facility, injuring dozens as air defenses falter and officials warn of evolving threat.
Missiles fired from Iran struck two southern Israeli cities, Arad and Dimona, late Saturday, injuring dozens and raising alarms near the country's main nuclear research facility.
The Israeli air defense system reportedly failed to intercept several projectiles, according to early accounts, as sirens sounded across communities close to the Negev facility.
Hospitals prepared for a mass casualty scenario as emergency crews raced to triage dozens of injured. Among those reported injured were a 12-year-old boy and a five-year-old girl in serious condition, according to local outlets; officials cautioned that figures could change as more information becomes available.
In Beersheba, emergency authorities declared a mass casualty incident and mobilized additional medical teams. Fire crews battled fires and structural damage in several neighborhoods, while investigators opened probes into the apparent intercept failure by air defenses and the circumstances of the missile strikes.
A separate attack in Tel Aviv involved a cluster munition and caused additional injuries, underscoring a broader escalation in hostilities in the region. Casualty tallies varied across reports, with some outlets noting hundreds of injuries and others citing fewer but still substantial losses. Officials emphasized caution while trying to confirm exact numbers as rescue operations continued.
Analysts warned against rapid conclusions, noting the strikes come at a time of heightened regional tension. Authorities urged residents to stay indoors when warnings sounded, seek shelter, and follow official guidance as the situation remained volatile.
