Fact-Check: "Days before the Iranian missile attack on Israel, Weizmann scientists developed a breakthrough blood test to detect leukemia. Then an Iranian missile destroyed their lab."
What We Know
Recent reports indicate that the Weizmann Institute of Science, a prominent research institution in Israel, experienced significant damage due to an Iranian missile strike. The missile attack reportedly occurred on June 20, 2025, and destroyed around 45 laboratories, severely impacting ongoing research efforts (Reuters, Times of Israel).
In the aftermath of the missile strike, Weizmann scientists managed to publish a study on a new blood test designed to detect leukemia. This breakthrough was announced shortly after the missile attack, suggesting that the research was either completed just before or during the chaos following the strike (JNS, Jewish News). The new test aims to replace traditional bone marrow sampling methods, which are more invasive (Weizmann USA).
Analysis
The timeline of events surrounding the missile strike and the publication of the leukemia research is critical to assessing the claim. The missile attack occurred on June 20, 2025, and reports of the breakthrough blood test emerged shortly thereafter, with publications dated as early as July 3, 2025 (JNS, Jewish News).
However, the claim that the blood test was developed "days before" the missile attack lacks specific corroboration. While it is true that the research was published shortly after the attack, the exact timing of when the research was completed or when the breakthrough was achieved remains unclear. The sources do not provide definitive evidence that the test was developed immediately prior to the missile strike.
Moreover, the reliability of the sources varies. Major outlets like Reuters and Times of Israel are generally considered credible, but the narrative surrounding the missile strike and the subsequent research publication may be influenced by the ongoing conflict and political tensions in the region. The urgency and dramatic nature of the events could lead to sensationalized reporting, which is a common issue in conflict-related news.
Conclusion
The claim that "days before the Iranian missile attack on Israel, Weizmann scientists developed a breakthrough blood test to detect leukemia" remains Unverified. While there is evidence that a missile strike did occur and that Weizmann scientists published a significant study shortly thereafter, the specific assertion regarding the timing of the blood test's development lacks clear documentation. The ambiguity surrounding the timeline and the potential for biased reporting necessitate a cautious approach to accepting the claim as fact.
Sources
- Israeli scientists scramble to save work after Iranian missile hits labs
- Their labs destroyed by a missile, Weizmann scientists publish innovative blood cancer study
- After missile strike, Weizmann lab publishes breakthrough leukemia research
- Israeli scientist rescues vital samples after missile strike, publishes cancer breakthrough days later
- After Missile Strike, Weizmann Lab Publishes Breakthrough Leukemia Research
- A New Blood Test May Detect Leukemia Risk and Replace Bone Marrow Sampling
- After Iranian missile strike, Weizmann lab publishes breakthrough leukemia research
- After missile strike, Weizmann lab publishes breakthrough leukemia research