Iran strikes near Israeli nuclear facility, launches long-range missiles for the first time

Israeli officials said Saturday that Iran had, for the first time, launched long-range missiles, raising concerns that the conflict could extend beyond the Middle East. The development came as an Iranian strike wounded dozens near Israel’s nuclear facility.

According to Israeli military chief Eyal Zamir, Iran fired two ballistic missiles with a range of 4,000 kilometers toward the U.S.-UK military base on Diego Garcia in the Indian Ocean. The Israeli military described it as the first instance of Iran deploying such long-range weapons in the conflict, marking a significant escalation since the United States and Israel began strikes on Iran on February 28.

“These missiles are not intended to strike Israel. Their range reaches European capitals — Berlin, Paris and Rome are all within direct threat range,” Zamir said.

A British defence ministry source said the attack took place before London formally authorized the U.S. on Friday to use British bases for strikes on Iranian missile sites.

Since the conflict began, more than 2,000 people have been killed in Iran, while 15 fatalities have been reported in Israel due to Iranian strikes.

Late Saturday, Iranian missiles hit the southern Israeli cities of Dimona and Arad, injuring dozens, including children. Iran’s Revolutionary Guards said early Sunday that the targets were “military installations” and security centers in southern Israel.

Israeli army spokesperson Effie Defrin said air defenses were operational but failed to intercept the incoming missiles. “We will investigate the incident and learn from it,” he wrote on X.

Israel’s undeclared nuclear reactor lies about 13 kilometers southeast of Dimona, in an area that also hosts key military facilities, including Nevatim Air Base. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu described the situation as “a very difficult evening in the battle for our future,” adding that Israel remained determined to strike its enemies on all fronts.

Meanwhile, U.S. President Donald Trump signaled that Washington may scale back its military campaign. In a post on Truth Social, he said the U.S. was close to achieving its objectives and was considering “winding down” operations, while urging other countries to take responsibility for securing the Strait of Hormuz.

Despite these remarks, U.S. policy signals have remained mixed, with additional military assets, including Marines and landing craft, continuing to move into the region. Rising energy prices and fears of a broader war have also heightened domestic political pressure in the United States, particularly ahead of the November elections.