Israel attacks Iran’s major steel plants, nuclear power infra in fresh strikes despite Trump’s extended ‘pause’ announcement, Tehran vows ‘heavy price’

In a fresh wave of attacks, the United States and Israel on Friday, 27th March, targeted some of Iran’s most important industrial sites, including the Khuzestan and Mobarakeh steel plants. These facilities are among the country’s largest steel producers and play a key role in Iran’s economy. According to reports, emergency teams rushed to the sites soon after the strikes. Iranian media said more details about the damage and impact are still being assessed.

The attack also led to casualties. In Isfahan, at least one person was killed, and 15 others were injured, as confirmed by provincial officials. The strikes are part of a larger escalation that has been ongoing since late February, when the US and Israel launched a joint offensive on Iran.

Power plant and nuclear sites also targeted

Along with steel plants, several other critical infrastructure sites were hit. Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said, “Israel has hit 2 of Iran’s largest steel factories, a power plant and civilian nuclear sites, among other infrastructure.”

Araghchi highlighted that the attacks on industrial infrastructure have come despite Trump’s announcement of a 10-day pause on hitting civilian infrastructure. He added that Iran will exact a heavy price for the attacks.

One of the major strikes was reported at a uranium-related facility in Yazd. The Israeli military described it as a “unique facility” connected to Iran’s nuclear programme. Iran confirmed the strike but said there were no casualties or radiation leaks.

Another projectile landed near the Bushehr Nuclear Power Plant, but officials said it caused “no casualties, financial, or technical damage.” The Khondab Heavy Water Complex was also among the targets, along with multiple locations in Tehran, Kashan, and Ahvaz.

Why these steel plants matter

According to the Fars news agency, initial information suggested an “electrical substation and an alloy steel production line” were targeted at Mobarakeh Steel complex, while a warehouse was hit at the Khuzestan Steel Factory.

Steel is a strategically important material essential for industrial and military production, including missiles, drones and ships. Israel’s military said its other attacks on Friday targeted sites “in the heart of Tehran” where ballistic missiles and other weapons are produced. It said it also hit missile launchers and storage sites in western Iran.

Rising tensions and heavy casualties

The conflict has now entered its 28th day and continues to intensify. Since the war began on 28th February, more than 1,900 people, including Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, have been killed in Iran due to US-Israeli strikes. Iran has responded with drone and missile attacks on Israel and other regions, including areas hosting US military bases.

Iranian officials have warned of strong retaliation. Araghchi said Iran will “exact a heavy price” for the continued attacks. The strikes have also impacted civilian life, with reports suggesting that several museums and historical sites have been damaged during the conflict.