Ballistic missiles launched by Iran have struck parts of an Israeli Air Force base, home to advanced F-35 fighter jets in the central-eastern region, according to satellite images. However, claims of extensive damage circulated on social media have been proven inaccurate.
Satellite imagery from Planet Labs PBC, sourced through the Associated Press, revealed damage to two hangars at the Nevatim Air Base in Israel’s Negev region. One hangar appeared to be destroyed, while another adjacent one was partially hit.
The missile strikes, which occurred on the night of October 1, left two craters at the base. Verified video footage of the attack shows several missiles impacting the area, yet the satellite images did not reveal any damage to the stationed fighter jets. It’s possible, however, that some aircraft inside the hangars may have been affected.
Despite the damage, operations at the base are unlikely to be significantly impacted.
IDF Response to the Attack
Following the attack, the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) confirmed that its air bases were targeted but emphasized that there was no harm to fighter jets, drones, munitions, or critical infrastructure. The damage was limited to office buildings and maintenance areas, which the IDF described as “ineffective.”
In response to the missile strikes, Israel launched airstrikes in southern Gaza, resulting in the deaths of at least 32 people. According to reports from U.S. media, American intelligence had warned Israel of an imminent missile attack by Iran. This early intelligence may have prompted Israel to safeguard its military assets, potentially moving aircraft to safety.
Despite claims on social media that Iran’s attack damaged or destroyed 20 F-35 jets, no evidence supports these reports.
Details of the Iranian Missile Strike
On Tuesday night, Iran fired approximately 180 ballistic missiles, including the hypersonic “Fattah-2” medium-range missiles, at several Israeli cities. The attack came in retaliation for Israel’s assassination of senior Hezbollah leaders, a group closely aligned with Tehran.
Footage shared online shows some missiles intercepted by Israel’s defense systems, while others hit various locations, including near Mossad headquarters, a Tel Aviv mall, a school, and the Ort Tel Nof air base.
This incident has heightened concerns about a potential regional conflict involving Israel and its allies, such as the United States and the UK, against Iran and its “Axis of Resistance,” which includes militias backed by Tehran. Israel has vowed retaliation, while Iran has warned of further escalation if attacked.
