| Iranian strikes on Weizmann Institute of Science | |
|---|---|
| Part of theIran–Israel war and theMiddle Eastern crisis (2023–present) | |
| Type | Ballistic missile strikes |
| Location | |
| Target | Weizmann Institute of Science |
| Date | 15 June 2025 |
| Executed by |  Iran |
| Outcome |
|
| Casualties | None |
On June 15, 2025,Iran launchedballistic missile strikes on theWeizmann Institute of Science located inRehovot,Israel, inflicting considerable damage, specifically targeting and demolishing multiple facilities within the complex.[1][2][3][4][5][6] This institute was historically a pivotal element of Israeli scientific and military research. Reports indicate that the laboratory, which was set to commence operations in 2025, has been nearly obliterated. Approximately 45 research laboratories throughout the Weizmann Institute sustained damage, impacting an estimated 400 to 500 researchers. As per Israeli media reports, the assault was described as "not accidental at all," suggesting that Iran intentionally aimed at an advanced research facility associated with the Israeli military.[7]
Israel has consistently targetedIranian nuclear scientists for assassination in a bid to undermine Iran's nuclear program. Additionally, it is reported that the institute has collaborative research projects with Israeli defense companies.[7]
The Planetary Sciences Building of Weizmann Institute which contained the geochemistry laboratories along with other chemistry-related programs, suffered significant damage due to the shock waves generated by the missiles. Overall, approximately 90 percent of the Weizmann Institute’s structures experienced some level of damage—ranging from direct missile impacts to collateral consequences like shock waves, shrapnel, and fires. This damage included broken windows, collapsed laboratory floors, ruined electrical systems, and water damage resulting from firefighting efforts.[8]
As stated by Alon Khen, the director of the institute, Iranian missile strikes have resulted in the destruction of 22 laboratories, 112 university buildings, and two primary administration structures. Consequently, around 25% of the institute's operations have been suspended, leading to the loss of essential data.[9]
The head and researchers of the Weizmann Institute, presenting at a session of the Knesset Finance Committee, declared that the damage inflicted on the institute amounts to two billion shekels (approximately $600 million).[9]
The Weizmann Institute is one of the most important scientific centers in Israel. It was founded in 1934 byChaim Weizmann as the Daniel Seif Research Institute, but was renamed in 1949 after its founder and later the first president of Israel. The institute's research is said to be part of the infrastructure of Israel's national security and military, and is funded by the government. The advanced technologies at the institute are used in complex military systems, including artificial intelligence for data analysis and combat guidance, drone technologies and autonomous systems, advanced electronic tracking and jamming tools, and alternative GPS navigation systems.[10]
The Israeli and Western media frequently highlight the institute's work in both basic and applied sciences—such as physics, chemistry, biology, and mathematics. Additionally, the Weizmann Institute has well-documented connections to the Israeli defense industry through partnerships with companiesElbit Systems, engaging in research related to artificial intelligence, drone technology, and nuclear research.[8]
Yoel Gazansky, a specialist in Iranian affairs at the Israeli Institute for National Security Studies, stated that the Weizmann Institute has consistently been regarded as a "symbol of Israel's scientific and technological advancement," and that Iran conveyed through this attack that "if you harm our scientists, we will retaliate by targeting your scientific personnel."[9]
