Iran attacks residential areas in Israel, over 100 civilians injured: Here is what we know so far

Iran strikes Israel 100 injured
Over 100 Injured in Iran attacks on Israel (Image via The Guradian)

A recent attack in the ongoing West Asia conflict on Sunday (22nd March), has left more than 100 people injured across Israel, after Iranian ballistic missiles struck residential areas in the south, while Hezbollah launched rockets in the north. The strikes, which took place over the weekend, have once again highlighted the growing intensity of the conflict and its impact on civilians.

Heavy damage in the nuclear cities 

One of the worst-hit areas was the city of Dimona in the southern part of Israel. The strike saw the collapse of a building, reported to be a school. The incident has seen at least 47 people injured, including a 10-year-old boy, whose condition is reported to be serious. 

Reports suggest that there have been several impact sites in the city, with at least a dozen spots being affected by the shrapnel. The city of Arad has been the site of the second missile strike, resulting in several people being injured, including seven people whose condition is critical.

Israeli defence officials admitted that the military failed to intercept the missiles in both Dimona and Arad. “The missiles were of the kind that Israel has intercepted in the past,” officials said, adding that the incidents are now under investigation.

Following the strike on Dimona, there were concerns about possible damage to the nearby Negev nuclear research centre. However, the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) clarified that there was no indication of any damage to the facility.

The agency said that no abnormal radiation levels had been reported and that it is “closely monitoring the situation” while gathering more information.

Northern Israel is also under fire

At the same time, Hezbollah intensified its attacks on northern Israeli border towns. At least 19 people were injured after rockets hit residential buildings in areas like Kfar Vradim and Ma’alot-Tarshiha.

In Kfar Vradim, a direct rocket strike caused a fire in a house, while in Ma’alot-Tarshiha, another home suffered heavy external damage. Emergency teams reported multiple shrapnel impact sites across the region.

Kindergarten damaged in central Israel

Earlier on Saturday, 21st March, a kindergarten in Rishon Lezion was damaged after a suspected cluster missile attack targeted central Israel. While no direct hit was reported, shrapnel caused major damage to the building.

Local officials confirmed that a few people were injured while rushing to shelters. Fortunately, no children were present at the time as schools were closed.

Rishon Lezion Mayor Raz Kinstlich described the damage, saying, “The windows were blown out, with some landing on the other side of the street. This is a kindergarten, a place where children are supposed to learn.”

He added that the education system in the city would remain closed for now. “Until I feel secure, the education system in Rishon Lezion will not return,” he said.

Israel vows to continue operations

Israeli leaders have said that the military campaign will continue despite the ongoing attacks. Defence Minister Israel Katz stressed that the operation would not be paused, even during the upcoming holidays.

“The strength of the home front is what allows us to keep going, and we will continue until the objectives are achieved,” he said.

Written by OpIndia Staff
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