Fact Check: Life Sciences Research at Weizmann Institute Halted After Missile Strike
What We Know
On June 15, 2025, the Weizmann Institute of Science in Rehovot, Israel, was struck by an Iranian missile, resulting in significant damage to multiple laboratories, particularly those focused on life sciences. The missile strike caused the destruction of years of research and halted ongoing scientific projects. According to reports, no casualties were reported, but the impact on the scientific community was profound, with researchers expressing that their life’s work had been obliterated (AP News).
The Weizmann Institute is renowned for its contributions to various scientific fields, including life sciences and physics, and has been described as the "crown jewel of science" in Israel. The missile strike not only damaged physical infrastructure but also sent a chilling message to scientists about their vulnerability in the ongoing conflict between Iran and Israel (AP News).
Analysis
The claim that life sciences research at the Weizmann Institute was halted due to the missile strike is supported by multiple credible sources. The Associated Press reported that the strike caused "heavy damage to multiple labs on campus," effectively "snuffing out years of scientific research" (AP News). This aligns with statements from researchers at the institute, who indicated that their labs, which were engaged in critical studies such as tissue generation and cancer research, were "literally decimated" (AP News).
The reliability of the sources is high, as the information comes from established news organizations and direct quotes from affected scientists. The AP News article provides a detailed account of the event, including eyewitness reports and expert opinions, which adds to its credibility. Additionally, a report from The Times of Israel corroborates the extent of the damage and the emotional toll on the researchers, further validating the claim.
Conclusion
The claim that life sciences research at the Weizmann Institute was halted following the missile strike is True. The evidence from multiple credible sources confirms that the strike caused extensive damage to laboratories, leading to the cessation of significant scientific work and the loss of years of research. The emotional and professional ramifications for the researchers involved underscore the severity of the situation.
