Tel aviv: Several Israeli soldiers were exposed to a carcinogenic substance at a military facility in central Israel following damage to the site from ongoing attacks. Ofek Neuberger, a journalist with Israeli Army Radio, reported that the soldiers encountered asbestos for several days while performing duties at the compromised location.

According to Anadolu Agency, Neuberger highlighted that the soldiers were responsible for sorting documents and guarding the site, which placed them near hazardous materials without adequate protective equipment. The exposure continued even after some equipment was evacuated, as troops remained near the building for an additional period without necessary protection.

There has been no immediate official comment from Israeli authorities, who enforce strict censorship over casualties and damages resulting from rockets and drones launched by Iran or Hezbollah. The recent tensions have escalated since the US-Israeli strikes on Iran commenced on February 28, prompting Tehran to retaliate with repeated drone and missile strikes aimed at Israel and Gulf countries hosting US military assets.