Heavy Iranian Barrage Strikes Israel Following U.S. Attack on Fordow Reactor: 18 Injured

In a significant escalation overnight, Iran launched a heavy barrage of missiles toward Israel in retaliation for a reported American strike on Iran’s Fordow nuclear facility. At least 18 people have been injured in the attacks, including one moderately injured in Be'er Yaakov and several suffering from anxiety.

The missile strike targeted wide areas across Israel, including Tel Aviv, Ness Ziona, Haifa, and northern and central regions of the country. The attacks included fragmentation warheads, resulting in a wide dispersion radius of up to eight kilometers in some locations, such as Tel Aviv.

Widespread Destruction in Tel Aviv

A building in northern Tel Aviv suffered a direct hit, leading to extensive destruction. According to an MDA medic on the scene, "The destruction is really great. We see two buildings that were completely destroyed except for the MMAD. We can say that thanks to the observance of the Home Front Command's instructions, there are only minor injuries."

Seven people were injured in Tel Aviv, five in Ness Ziona, three in Haifa, and one moderately in Be'er Yaakov.

Haifa Struck Without Alarm Activation

In Haifa, a missile fell without triggering alarms. The Home Front Command has acknowledged the incident as "unusual" and stated it is under investigation. Despite the lack of warning sirens, residents sought shelter following advance warnings from other sources. A similar issue occurred earlier this week during an Iranian missile barrage that also caused heavy damage in the Haifa area.

Multiple Regions Targeted

Missile impacts and shrapnel were reported in Ness Ziona, Beer Yaakov, Haifa, and various communities across northern Israel. Israel Fire and Rescue Service's 102 hotline received multiple reports of direct hits on residential buildings in the Coastal, Central, and Dan districts, prompting an immediate deployment of firefighting and emergency response teams.

Passenger Ship Diverted

A Mano Shipping vessel carrying approximately 1,800 Israeli passengers was denied docking permission at the Port of Haifa due to security concerns. The ship has been rerouted and is now en route to Limassol, Cyprus.

Alarms and Alerts Across the North

Air raid sirens were heard throughout the night across vast areas, including the Upper Galilee, Acre, Haifa and Kiryat regions, Jezreel Valley, Wadi Ara, Golan Heights, Lower Galilee, and the Finger of Galilee.

Home Front Command Tightens Instructions

In light of the attacks and alarm system failures, the Home Front Command has issued stricter guidelines to ensure civilian safety and is urging all residents to remain alert and follow protective measures as the situation continues to evolve.