Iran launched two medium-range ballistic missiles at the joint US-UK military base Diego Garcia in the Indian Ocean. The attack occurred on the night of March 21, but neither missile struck the target. This operation represents the longest-range missile strike ever attempted by Tehran, reaching approximately 4,000 kilometers from Iranian territory.
The Wall Street Journal reported that one missile failed during flight, while a US Navy interceptor ship destroyed the second using the SM-3 system. This launch violates Iran’s previous claims of limiting its missile range to 2,000 kilometers. Experts believe the military utilized an upgraded version of the Khorramshahr missile for this operation. Iranian state media described the act as a significant step to demonstrate expanded strike capabilities.
Regional escalation details
The Diego Garcia base serves as a vital strategic hub for deploying B-52 bombers and nuclear submarines outside the Middle East. Simultaneously, Iran targeted central Israel with ballistic missiles carrying cluster warheads. One missile hit a kindergarten in Rishon LeZion, though no casualties were immediately reported. In response, the IDF launched a major wave of airstrikes against regime infrastructure in Tehran.
Saudi Arabia confirmed the interception of at least 20 Iranian drones over its eastern territories during the night. British Prime Minister Keir Starmer held an emergency meeting to discuss threats to the Strait of Hormuz and global energy security. London has officially authorized the United States to use British airbases for offensive operations against Iranian targets. Meanwhile, the Pentagon is accelerating the deployment of thousands of additional troops to the region. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu noted that after a series of airstrikes, Iran’s military potential has been significantly undermined.
Previously, The Ukrainian Review reported that the US plans to allocate over $200 billion for the military operation against Iran amid new escalation scenarios.
