Jerusalem - Israel Defense Force (IDF) on Saturday, 21 March 2026 said that the latest Iran's missile launch, targeting Diego Garcia island at the Indian Ocean, proved that the West Asia country has developed long-range missiles, becoming threats to many countries in the globe.
Iran has launched two ballistic missiles, targeting United States and United Kingdom' joint military based on Diego Garcia island on Friday, 20 March 2026. Although none of the missiles hit its targets, the action become a global security attention on Iran's missile capabilities.
According to the IDF, the launch was the first time for Iran to fired its long-range missiles since the start of Operation Roaring Lion. The missiles could reach a distance of over 4,000 km, according to IDF.
"Just yesterday, Iran launched a two-stage intercontinental ballistic missile with a range of 4,000 kilometers toward an American target on the island of Diego Garcia. These missiles were not intended to hit Israel," "IDF Chief of Staff Eyal Zamir said.
He added Iran's a long-range missile is targeting the capitals of Europe. All of the long-range missiles produced by Iran are all under direct threat, IDF said.
"During Operation Rising Lion in June 2025, the IDF revealed that the Iranian regime has intentions to develop missiles with a range of 4,000 km, which pose a danger to dozens of countries in Europe, Asia and Africa. The Iranian regime denied this," the IDF said in a statement, posting on its social media X.
"We have been saying it: The Iranian terrorist regime poses a global threat. Now, with missiles that can reach London, Paris or Berlin," the statement stressed.
Separately, Iran strikes 12 locations at Dimona, home to Israel's Shimon Peres Negev nuclear research center, on Saturday, 21 March 2026. At least 21 people are reportedly wounded, according to Roya news.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has a phone communication with Dimona Mayor Benny Biton to comfort the people there.
