Iranian missile hit on Ne'ot Hovav factory leads to fear of chemical leakage

The Environmental Protection Ministry stated that the possibility of hazardous chemicals leaking was being investigated, but that at this stage, there was no expected risk to nearby towns.

An Iranian missile impacted in the industrial zone of Ne'ot Hovav on Sunday afternoon, starting a fire and potentially causing a leak of hazardous chemicals, Israel's Environmental Protection Ministry stated.

The Environmental Protection Ministry stated that the possibility of hazardous chemicals leaking was being investigated, but that at this stage, there was no expected risk to nearby towns in the Ramat Negev Regional Council.

Israeli media reported that one person was lightly wounded by the shockwave.

The police also blocked off Highway 40 in the wake of the event. The Regional Council advised citizens to seek other means of traveling in the area.

Home Front Command requests citizens remain indoors

Home Front Command requested citizens of the area remain within enclosed structures, turn off all air conditioning, and close the windows.

The Industrial Council of Ne'ot Hovav announced that they were working with Home Front Command and Israeli police and firefighters, as well as the Environmental Protection Ministry and the management of the damaged factory.

"For safety reasons, a hazardous chemical event has been declared, and all workers of the factories have been instructed to remain in safe spaces," the council stated.

Fragments fall in Beersheba

Later on Sunday, several missile fragments were reported to have fallen in the area of Beersheba.

Eleven people were reported to have been treated for anxiety following the falls, with another twenty treated for light injuries.