ARAD: Nearly 100 people were injured after Iranian missile strikes hit southern Israel on Saturday, targeting the cities of Arad and Dimona. The attack came after air defence systems reportedly failed to intercept at least two incoming ballistic missiles.
Among the wounded were children, including a 12-year-old boy and a five-year-old girl, both said to be in critical condition. Early reports from local media suggested possible fatalities, though officials have yet to confirm any deaths.
In Dimona, at least 27 people were injured, including a teenager seriously hurt by shrapnel. Arad saw the highest number of casualties, with at least 68 people wounded 10 in serious condition and 14 moderately injured, while others suffered minor wounds.
Emergency services declared a mass-casualty situation at Soroka Medical Center in Beersheba as rescue teams rushed to multiple impact sites. According to Magen David Adom chief Eli Bin, several individuals were feared trapped under debris in damaged buildings, with some still unaccounted for.
Initial assessments indicated that one of the missiles, carrying a conventional warhead weighing several hundred kilograms, struck near residential buildings, causing extensive structural damage and sparking fires.
Videos circulating on social media appeared to show the strike occurring moments after warning sirens sounded, although the exact timing remains unverified.
The Israeli military has launched an investigation into the failure of its air defence systems to intercept the missile that hit Arad. A separate inquiry is also underway to examine the broader circumstances surrounding the incident.
Military spokesperson Brigadier General Effie Defrin stated that while defence systems were active, they did not successfully intercept the missile. He emphasized that the type of weapon used was not unfamiliar and pledged a thorough review of the event.
“Our thoughts are with the residents of Arad and Dimona,” he added, expressing solidarity with those affected.
