IRGC launches ballistic missiles at Israeli nuclear facility in Dimona

JERUSALEM — The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps launched ballistic missiles targeting the Negev desert and the city of Dimona in Israel early Saturday, striking near a site widely believed to house a nuclear reactor.

The attack occurred at 2:23 a.m. local time, sending multiple projectiles across the border from Iranian territory. Sirens wailed across southern Israel as the missiles approached, prompting widespread evacuations in the Negev region. Emergency services responded immediately to the impact zones, though initial assessments of damage remain incomplete.

Dimona, located in the southern Negev, has long been the subject of international scrutiny due to the presence of the Shimon Peres Nuclear Research Center. Israel has never officially confirmed the facility's purpose, but it is widely understood to be the country's primary nuclear weapons production site. The targeting of this location marks a significant escalation in regional tensions.

Israeli military officials confirmed the interception of several incoming projectiles by the Iron Dome and Arrow defense systems. However, at least one missile is believed to have reached its target, causing explosions in the vicinity of the Dimona facility. The extent of any damage to the reactor or surrounding infrastructure has not been disclosed.

The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps, the military wing of Iran's government, has not issued an official statement claiming responsibility for the strike. Iranian state media has not commented on the incident. The motive behind the attack remains unclear, with no immediate justification provided by Tehran.

Regional analysts note that the strike represents a direct attack on Israeli soil by Iranian forces, bypassing proxy groups that have historically carried out operations in the region. This shift in tactics raises concerns about the potential for further escalation.

Israel's Prime Minister's Office has convened an emergency security cabinet meeting to assess the situation and determine the appropriate response. Defense officials are evaluating the threat level and coordinating with international allies.

The United States and European Union have issued statements calling for restraint and de-escalation. Diplomatic channels remain active as world leaders seek to prevent a broader conflict.

Civilian casualties have not been reported, though several residents were treated for shock and minor injuries related to the evacuation. Airspace over southern Israel remains closed to commercial flights as military operations continue.

Questions remain regarding the full scope of the attack and whether additional strikes are imminent. The international community is awaiting further developments as the situation continues to unfold.