At least four people were killed and around 20 others injured after an Iranian ballistic missile struck the central Israeli city of Beit Shemesh on Sunday, according to emergency officials. The city lies about 30 kilometres west of Jerusalem.
The strike was confirmed by Magen David Adom (MDA), Israel’s national emergency medical and ambulance service. In a televised statement, MDA spokesman Zaki Heller said, “Four people were killed in a direct hit on Beit Shemesh,” adding that multiple others sustained injuries of varying severity. Paramedics provided immediate on-site treatment before evacuating the wounded to nearby hospitals.
The attack comes amid heightened tensions between Iran and Israel, with both sides engaged in escalating hostilities. The missile reportedly struck a residential area, causing significant structural damage and triggering panic among local residents. Emergency responders worked swiftly to extract people trapped under debris.
In a statement posted on Telegram, the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) said search and rescue units, medical teams and a helicopter designated for casualty evacuation were operating at the impact site. The military added that it was assessing the situation and continuing defensive operations.
Residents described scenes of chaos as sirens wailed across the city moments before the impact. Authorities have urged civilians to follow safety instructions and remain near protected shelters as the security situation develops.
Further details regarding the identities of the victims have not yet been released. Officials indicated that rescue efforts and damage assessments were ongoing, while security forces remain on high alert amid fears of additional missile attacks.
