An Iranian ballistic missile struck Beit Shemesh in the Jerusalem district on 1/3, hitting a residential area and destroying a synagogue. The attack also caused significant damage to a public bomb shelter and surrounding buildings. At least 9 people died, and nearly 30 were injured in the incident.
Social media videos showed smoke trails in the city's sky, appearing to be air defense missiles firing, before a large explosion erupted on the ground. Local police stated, "Due to a direct hit, the building sustained severe damage and collapsed".
The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) admitted that the air defense system failed to intercept the target and launched an investigation into the incident, as well as assessing the condition of the bomb shelter. Major General Shai Klepper, commander of the Home Front Command, inspected the scene.
The IDF confirmed that the Home Front Command's early warning system operated as designed and was activated in Beit Shemesh before sirens sounded. However, it remains unclear why Israel's defense system could not intercept the Iranian ballistic missile.
This incident marks the highest number of casualties in Israel since the conflict erupted on the morning of 28/2. While Israel has intercepted most Iranian missiles, the IDF has also warned that its defense system cannot guarantee a 100% interception rate.
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The scene after an Iranian missile struck a residential area in Beit Shemesh on 1/3. Photo: Times of Israel |
The scene after an Iranian missile struck a residential area in Beit Shemesh on 1/3. Photo: Times of Israel
Shmuel Greenberg, mayor of Beit Shemesh, stated that 20 residents remained unaccounted for, but added that "that does not necessarily mean they are in trouble". He said, "It is very possible we have not found them yet, but we are doing everything we can".
Search and rescue teams, along with medical personnel, are working at the scene to assist victims. A helicopter has also been deployed for emergency evacuation of the injured as needed.
Thanh Tam (According to Times of Israel, CNN)
