In a dramatic escalation of hostilities, an Iranian missile strike has severely damaged Israel’s prestigious Weizmann Institute of Science, prompting a leading scientist to describe the attack as a “moral victory for Iran.” The strike, which occurred early Sunday, caused extensive destruction to multiple laboratories but resulted in no casualties.
🧪 Symbolic Target: Israel’s Scientific Crown Jewel
Professor Oren Schuldiner, a neuroscientist whose lab was obliterated, told the Associated Press:
“They managed to harm the crown jewel of science in Israel. It’s a moral victory for Iran.”
The Weizmann Institute, founded in 1934 and named after Israel’s first president, is globally renowned for its contributions to life sciences, physics, and chemistry. The missile strike destroyed two key buildings—one housing life sciences labs and another under construction for chemistry research—while dozens of others sustained collateral damage.
🔥 Years of Research Lost
Scientists reported the loss of decades of research, including studies on cancer, tissue regeneration, and neurological disorders. Advanced equipment, genetically modified organisms, and irreplaceable data were destroyed.
“This isn’t just an attack on a building—it’s an attack on knowledge,” said Schuldiner.
🎯 Retaliation for Targeted Killings?
The strike follows recent Israeli airstrikes that reportedly killed several Iranian nuclear scientists and top military officials. Experts believe Iran’s attack on the Weizmann Institute was a symbolic retaliation, targeting Israel’s scientific elite in response to years of covert operations against Iranian researchers.
🛡️ Strategic Implications
Though primarily academic, the Weizmann Institute has ties to Israel’s defense sector, including collaborations with firms like Elbit Systems. Analysts suggest these associations may have made it a target.
Stay tuned for updates on the rebuilding efforts and regional developments.
