NE’OT HOVAV, Israel (VINnews) — A missile strike in southern Israel hit an industrial area on Sunday, igniting a fire and prompting concerns about a possible release of hazardous materials, authorities said.

Israel’s Environmental Protection Ministry said it was examining whether any dangerous substances had leaked following the impact at the Ne’ot Hovav industrial zone. Officials said that, at this stage, there was no indication of risk to nearby communities in the Ramat Negev region.

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As a precaution, authorities declared a hazardous materials incident, and workers in the area were told to remain in protected spaces.

Emergency teams, including firefighters, police and environmental specialists, were operating at the site alongside factory personnel to assess and contain the situation.

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The military’s Home Front Command instructed residents nearby to stay indoors, shut windows and turn off ventilation systems as a safety measure.

Police also closed a nearby highway and advised drivers to use alternate routes.

Local media reported that one person was lightly injured by the blast.

The incident comes amid ongoing tensions between Israel and Iran, with recent exchanges including missile attacks targeting infrastructure and key sites.