Iranian Missiles Escalate Iran-Israel Conflict
The Iran-Israel conflict reached a dangerous new level on Thursday morning. Iranian ballistic missiles struck multiple Israeli cities, including Beersheba and Tel Aviv. Among the targets were a key hospital and Israel’s stock exchange building. The attacks caused dozens of injuries and raised fears of a broader regional war.
Soroka Medical Center in Beersheba, a vital institution for southern Israel and soldiers returning from Gaza, suffered heavy damage. Emergency services confirmed at least 44 injuries, with three listed in critical condition.
Missiles Hit Tel Aviv and Jerusalem
Iran launched 20 to 30 ballistic missiles early Thursday. The strikes hit central areas of Tel Aviv, Ramat Gan, Holon, and Beersheba. Reports described powerful explosions not heard in Jerusalem since the conflict began.
One missile hit the Israeli stock exchange building in Ramat Gan’s Diamond District. Structural damage prompted immediate emergency responses. Across Israel, sirens alerted civilians as air defense systems tried to intercept incoming fire.
Iran and Israel Exchange Blame Amid Global Outrage
Iranian state media claimed military targets were the focus, particularly intelligence facilities near Soroka Hospital. However, the blast impact caused damage and casualties at the hospital, sparking international condemnation.
Israeli officials called the hospital strike a war crime. Health Minister Uriel Buso condemned the attack, saying Iran had crossed a moral and legal red line.
Israel Responds by Targeting Iran’s Nuclear Facility
In retaliation, Israel bombed Iran’s Arak heavy water reactor, a key part of its nuclear program. Although Iranian state TV confirmed the strike, it assured there was no radiation risk. The site, restructured under the 2015 nuclear deal, can potentially produce weapons-grade plutonium.
The International Atomic Energy Agency has urged restraint. Inspectors last visited Arak in May but now face challenges due to Iranian restrictions.
Heavy Casualties as Conflict Intensifies
The current escalation started on June 13, with Israeli airstrikes on Iranian military targets. Iran reported 639 deaths, including 263 civilians. Over 1,300 people have been wounded.
Iran’s missile and drone retaliation killed 24 people in Israel and injured hundreds. As the conflict enters its seventh day, global calls for de-escalation grow louder.
Have You Read This Article
