Israel says Iran launched first long-range missile of war

2026-03-22 - 09:39

The Israeli military has announced that Iran has conducted its first launch of a long-range ballistic missile since the outbreak of hostilities on Feb. 28, claiming the weapon possesses a range of approximately 4,000 kilometers. The development marks a significant shift in the ongoing confrontation between Tehran and its adversaries. According to statements issued by the Israeli army on the social media platform X, the missile’s range would enable Iran to reach several European capitals, including Berlin, Paris, and London. The military further alleged that Tehran has already carried out attacks against 12 countries across the region and is actively developing capabilities that present a much broader threat beyond the Middle East. The announcement comes amid sustained hostilities that began with US-Israeli strikes on Iranian territory in late February. Tehran has responded with repeated drone and missile operations targeting both Israel and Gulf nations hosting American military assets. The introduction of a long-range missile into Iran’s operational arsenal, if confirmed, would substantially alter the strategic calculus for European nations previously considered beyond the immediate reach of the conflict. Regional tensions continue to escalate as both sides show little indication of de-escalation. The Israeli military’s claims about Iranian missile capabilities have not been independently verified, and Iranian authorities have yet to issue an official response regarding the purported launch. European governments are closely monitoring the situation as concerns grow over the potential for the conflict to expand beyond its current geographic boundaries.