A hospital in southern Israel was struck by an Iranian missile this morning, causing significant damage and injuries. The Soroka Hospital, located in Beer Sheba, was hit directly by a ballistic missile, according to Israeli officials. This facility is the primary hospital in the southern region of Israel.
The attack resulted in serious injuries to two people, with around 40 others suffering various wounds, as reported by Israeli emergency services. The missile strike targeted not just the hospital but was part of a broader assault on multiple locations, including civilian areas in central Israel. Eyewitnesses described hearing a loud explosion and seeing smoke rising from the hospital.
Iranian state media claimed that their missiles aimed at an Israel Defense Forces (IDF) command and intelligence headquarters situated near the hospital. This escalation comes amid ongoing tensions between Israel and Iran, particularly concerning Iran’s nuclear program.
In retaliation, the IDF conducted strikes on Iran’s Khondab nuclear facility, which is about 250 miles west of Tehran. Israeli officials had warned residents in the surrounding area to evacuate before the attack. Iranian media confirmed that two projectiles hit near the under-construction heavy-water reactor, but they stated there were no risks of radiation or casualties from that strike.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu condemned the missile attack on the hospital, describing the Iranian leadership as "terrorist tyrants." He vowed to hold Iran accountable for the strike, emphasizing that it was unacceptable for a military to target a hospital. Netanyahu also suggested that the Iranian people should rise against their government for freedom.
Israel’s defense minister, Israel Katz, announced plans to intensify military actions against Iran, targeting strategic locations to mitigate threats to Israel. He stated that the IDF would increase the frequency and intensity of attacks on Iranian military sites and government targets.
The missile strikes have raised alarms, as Israeli air defenses were breached, leading to hits on various population centers, including Ramat Gan, where significant damage occurred. Emergency services reported multiple injuries across different locations, with some people trapped in buildings following the attacks.
The situation is fluid, with both countries on high alert as tensions continue to escalate. The international community is watching closely, given the potential implications for regional stability and security.