Iran launched two intermediate-range ballistic missiles at Diego Garcia but did not strike the U.S.-U.K. military installation in the Indian Ocean, as reported by the Wall Street Journal, referencing multiple U.S. officials.
One missile malfunctioned during flight, while a U.S. naval vessel launched an SM-3 interceptor at the other; however, it was unclear if the interception was successful, the newspaper noted on Friday. The Journal did not indicate when the missiles were launched.
A representative from the U.K. Ministry of Defence informed CNBC that they are preparing a statement.
The White House and the British embassy in Washington did not respond promptly to requests for comments from Reuters.
This reported attack signifies Iran’s initial operational deployment of intermediate-range ballistic missiles and a notable effort to extend threats beyond the Middle East to U.S. interests, the Wall Street Journal stated.
The U.K. reached an agreement in May 2025 to transfer sovereignty of the Chagos Islands, where the Diego Garcia facility is situated, to Mauritius, which has long contested the U.K.’s claim and ownership of the archipelago in the Indian Ocean.
U.S. President Donald Trump has consistently criticized the U.K.’s decision.
