An Iranian ballistic missile struck a 10-story residential building in Bat Yam overnight, causing massive destruction. The missile shaved off the entire right side of the structure, leaving a scene of devastation not witnessed in Israel’s home front in years.
According to updated Magen David Adom (MDA) data, four people were killed: an 8-year-old girl, a 10-year-old boy, and two women. Over 100 were injured, including four in serious condition and eight moderately wounded. Rescue forces continue to search the rubble with sniffer dogs, while police attempt to contact all building residents to locate the 35 still missing.
MDA paramedic Moti Nisan described the chaotic scene: “We arrived within moments of the call. We began initial sweeps of the building, treated the injured, and evacuated the most severe cases. Sadly, three victims were pronounced dead on site.”
The missile strike caused total collapse of 10 full floors, with debris and shattered glass scattered across a wide radius. Images from the site reveal unprecedented structural damage, with a collapsed front façade.
Eyewitnesses recounted chilling moments:
Amnon, who sheltered with his 8-year-old son, said: “As soon as the siren sounded, I grabbed my boy and ran to the shelter. He was shaking, holding my hand tightly. When the boom hit, my heart nearly stopped. We were lucky, just broken glass in our apartment.”
Baruch, a longtime Bat Yam resident, added: “I’ve never heard anything like it. My shutters fell off. I was in wars — I fought in the Golan during the Six-Day War — but nothing like this. I was truly shaken.”
Home Front Command forces have taken charge at the scene, continuing meticulous searches with dogs and advanced equipment. Efforts to account for all residents are ongoing, with dozens still unaccounted for.