Iranian Missile Strike Targets Hospital in Beersheba, Israel

On June 19, 2025, a missile fired by Iran struck the Soroka Medical Center in Beersheba, Israel, as conflict between the two nations intensifies, raising concerns over civilian safety.

An Iranian missile hit the Soroka Medical Center in Beersheba, causing significant damage, marking the first direct attack on a hospital since Iran began missile strikes in response to Israel's actions against its nuclear facilities and military leaders. The missile hit the old surgical building of the hospital, scattering debris, as visual evidence of the damage surfaced from the Israeli fire and rescue service.

Shlomi Codish, the hospital’s director, reported that the affected departments had been evacuated a few days before the strike, with all patients and staff already in shelters when the missile hit. The emergency department treated several individuals with minor injuries following the incident.

This missile strike not only emphasizes the perilous situation for civilians in both nations but also reflects the human cost of ongoing hostilities. Since the start of this conflict, Iranian attacks have resulted in 24 fatalities in Israel, while Israeli airstrikes have reportedly claimed 224 lives in Iran, according to statements from both governments.

Despite Israel's effective air defense system, which has thwarted the majority of incoming Iranian missiles, some have successfully evaded interception, highlighting vulnerabilities and potential escalation risks. In the aftermath of the hospital attack, Israel's Defense Minister, Israel Katz, condemned Iran, labeling them as engaging in war crimes, referencing international laws that protect medical facilities from targeted attacks.

Israel, meanwhile, has faced accusations of its own, as international observers criticize its military actions regarding medical establishments in Gaza, claiming these actions have violated similar legal protections. Reports from Israeli television depicted smoke rising from the hospital and scenes of chaos as ambulances responded to the scene.