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Iran's Failed Missile Strike on Diego Garcia Base Confirmed by U.K.

Iran confirmed to have fired two ballistic missiles at the U.K.-U.S. military base on Diego Garcia, both failing to reach their target. The U.K. had earlier approved U.S. use of its bases for defensive operations against Iranian threats. President Trump issued an ultimatum for Iran to reopen the Strait of Hormuz or face destruction of power plants, while Israel escalated attacks after Iran struck near its nuclear site, causing civilian injuries. The events underscore heightened regional tensions with reciprocal threats of retaliation.

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Iran's Failed Missile Strike on Diego Garcia Base Confirmed by U.K.

Iran launched two ballistic missiles at the joint British-American military base on Diego Garcia in the Indian Ocean, but both projectiles failed to hit their target, U.K. officials confirmed.

Missile Attack Details

  • Iran fired two intermediate-range ballistic missiles at the Diego Garcia base, with one falling short and the other intercepted, according to U.K. Housing Secretary Steve Reed.
  • Israel's military identified the missiles as two-stage intercontinental ballistic missiles, capable of ranging up to 4,000 kilometers, posing a threat to European capitals like Berlin, Paris, and Rome.
  • This incident marks Iran's first operational use of intermediate-range ballistic missiles, as reported by The Wall Street Journal.

U.K. and U.S. Military Coordination

  • The U.K. approved U.S. use of bases at Diego Garcia and RAF Fairford for "specific and limited defensive operations" prior to the attack, focusing on degrading missile sites threatening shipping in the Strait of Hormuz.
  • The U.K. Ministry of Defence stated that Iran's actions threaten British interests and allies, with RAF jets continuing defensive operations in the region.
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Trump's Ultimatum and Warnings

  • President Donald Trump threatened to "obliterate" Iran's power plants, starting with the largest, if Tehran does not fully reopen the Strait of Hormuz within 48 hours.
  • This stance contrasts with Trump's recent comments about winding down military efforts in the Middle East, and he reiterated disinterest in a ceasefire.

Israel-Iran Escalation and Casualties

  • Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz vowed to significantly increase attacks on Iran following the exchange of strikes.
  • Iran struck near Israel's nuclear research site in Dimona, injuring 33 people, including a 4-year-old girl, and damaging buildings; this was the first time the site was targeted.
  • Israel's defenses failed to intercept missiles that hit Dimona and Arad, with rescue services responding to multiple impact sites.

Regional Tensions and Developments

  • Iran's representative to the U.N. International Maritime Organization stated the Strait of Hormuz remains open to all shipping except vessels linked to "Iran's enemies."
  • Iranian Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf threatened to target regional energy facilities if Iran's power plants are attacked, predicting prolonged high oil prices.
  • The U.S. has allowed the sale of Iranian oil at sea, amid ongoing geopolitical tensions.
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