Israels assessment of Iranian military capabilities questioned by experts

March 22, 2026 • Al Jazeera

Israels assessment of Iranian military capabilities questioned by experts

Here is a rewritten version of the article in a neutral newsroom style:

Iranian Missiles Strike Israeli Towns Near Nuclear Research Centre

At least 180 people were injured in an attack on the towns of Arad and Dimona, which are located near an Israeli nuclear research centre. The Iranian government has stated that the attack was in response to an Israeli strike on its Natanz nuclear facility in Isfahan province.

According to reports, hundreds of people have been evacuated from the affected areas as a precautionary measure. The Ministry of Health has confirmed that at least 4,564 people have been wounded in Israel since the start of the conflict on February 28.

The Israeli government has acknowledged the severity of the situation, with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stating that his country faced a “very difficult evening” in the battle for its future.

Analysts have noted that this attack marks a significant escalation in the conflict between Iran and Israel. Iranian military capabilities are considered to be one of the largest and most varied in the Middle East, with a range of ballistic and cruise missiles designed to provide Tehran with reach despite its lack of a modern air force.

Iran’s missile programme includes short- and medium-range systems, as well as longer-range land-attack and antiship cruise missiles. The country has also developed cluster munitions that can disperse multiple bomblets over a wide area.

The attack on Diego Garcia, a joint US-United Kingdom military base in the Indian Ocean, has raised questions about Iranian capabilities and intentions. Two Iranian missiles were reportedly fired at the base, but the UK said the attack failed, while an Iranian official denied firing the missile.

Experts have noted that Iran’s military capabilities are a significant concern for Israel and its allies. The Israeli government has been working to develop its own missile defence programme in response to these threats.

Source: Al Jazeera