Jerusalem, Mar 21: At least 180 people were injured after Iran launched missile strikes targeting southern Israeli towns near a key nuclear facility, marking a sharp escalation in the ongoing conflict.
According to Israeli authorities, the attacks hit areas in Dimona—home to the country’s main nuclear research centre—and nearby Arad, causing widespread damage and multiple casualties. Officials said more than 100 people were wounded in Arad alone, while dozens others were injured in Dimona, including several in serious condition.
Iranian state media described the strikes as retaliation for an earlier attack on its Natanz nuclear facility, signalling a further intensification of tit-for-tat military action between the two sides.
Israeli emergency services reported that some missiles evaded air defence systems, resulting in direct impacts on residential areas and infrastructure. Several buildings were damaged or destroyed, and fires broke out at multiple locations.
The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) said there were no immediate indications of damage to Israel’s nuclear facility in Dimona and no abnormal radiation levels had been detected, while urging restraint amid the escalating hostilities.
The latest strikes come as the conflict enters its fourth week, with both sides continuing to exchange attacks, raising concerns over a broader regional escalation.
