Iran Launches Ballistic Missiles at UK’s Diego Garcia Base

Iran launched two ballistic missiles toward the British base at Diego Garcia in the Indian Ocean, according to a report from the Mehr News Agency.

The Iranian news agency added on Saturday that targeting Diego Garcia demonstrates the range of Iranian missiles exceeds previous enemy estimations.

U.S. Officials told the Wall Street Journal that Iran fired two medium-range ballistic missiles at a joint U.S.-British military base in the central Indian Ocean. The newspaper did not specify when the missiles were launched at Diego Garcia, which is approximately 4,000 kilometers from Iranian territory.

Neither missile hit the base, officials said, but the action is considered the first practical use by Iran of medium-range ballistic missiles in a serious attempt to threaten American interests beyond the Middle East.

One of the missiles malfunctioned during flight, whereas the other was targeted by an interceptor missile launched from a U.S. Warship, though it remains unclear if the interceptor successfully hit its target, according to the report.

Iran’s targeting of Diego Garcia, located roughly 2,500 miles from its shores, reveals that its missile range is greater than previously acknowledged. The development underscores growing regional tensions and raises concerns about potential escalation.

American research centers estimate Iran possesses operational missiles with a range of up to 4,000 kilometers, while Israeli centers estimate the range at around 3,000 kilometers.

Diego Garcia Base

Diego Garcia, located in the Chagos Archipelago in the Indian Ocean, is one of two bases that Britain has allowed the United States to use in offensive operations against Iran.

The U.S. Has deployed bombers and other equipment to the base, which is a major hub for operations in Asia, including the occupations of Afghanistan and Iraq.

Britain agreed to return the Chagos Islands to Mauritius after controlling them since the 1960s, while retaining the right to lease the military base at Diego Garcia. Former U.S. President Donald Trump strongly criticized London’s decision to relinquish the island.

Since February 28, Israel and the United States have been carrying out attacks on Iran, resulting in the deaths of hundreds of people, including Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei and security officials. In response, Tehran has been launching missiles and drones toward Israel.

Iran has as well been targeting what it says are American sites and interests in Arab countries, but some of these attacks have resulted in casualties and damage to civilian facilities, which has been condemned by the targeted countries.