A ballistic missile launched by Iran struck Soroka Medical Center in Beersheba, southern Israel, on Thursday morning, injuring dozens of patients and staff.
Hospital officials said several wards were completely destroyed as fire spread through one building, shattering windows and causing ceilings to collapse.
The Iranian regime targeted Soroka Hospital in Beersheba with a ballistic missile—hitting a major medical center.
We will not stand by. We will continue doing what must be done to defend our people. pic.twitter.com/4ldeTQhATW
— Israel ישראל (@Israel) June 19, 2025
Prof. Shlomi Kodesh, chief executive of Soroka Hospital, said around 200 patients were transferred to other medical centers for treatment. About 80 patients and staff are believed to have been injured by the blast, with most injuries resulting from the shockwave, according to Kodesh.
Damage at Soroka Medical Center, the largest hospital in southern Israel, following an Iranian missile strike. pic.twitter.com/Kd8lLbwEkv
— MDN NEWS (@MDNnewss) June 19, 2025
Iran claimed the missile was aimed at a nearby Israeli military unit and not the hospital, though Israeli military officials have not confirmed the presence of such a unit.
The attack comes amid heavy exchanges between the two countries. Since last Friday, Israel has targeted Iranian nuclear and military sites with airstrikes, prompting Iran to retaliate with over 450 missiles and 1,000 drones. On Thursday alone, Iran launched about 30 ballistic missiles at Israel.
Other missiles hit urban areas including Holon and Ramat Gan, wounding dozens and causing widespread fear. Across Israel on Thursday, 271 people were reported injured, six in serious condition.
Ramat Gan pic.twitter.com/29F0ss3J3S
— Wojciech Szewko (@wszewko) June 19, 2025
The ongoing conflict has so far claimed at least 24 lives in Israel, while Iranian sources report hundreds of casualties on their side.
Meanwhile, U.S. President Donald Trump has yet to decide whether to involve American forces, saying a decision will be made within two weeks as diplomatic efforts continue.
