A 4.2-magnitude earthquake struck near Dimona in southern Israel on Thursday morning, triggering alerts across the Dead Sea and Negev regions. Emergency services reported no injuries or significant damage, and no major aftershocks followed the event. The quake, which originated over 20 kilometers beneath the surface, set off sirens and public safety messages in several towns, causing confusion among residents already on edge due to regional tensions. The incident highlights ongoing concerns about Israel's preparedness for a major earthquake, as experts warn the region is overdue for a significant seismic event and state audits have repeatedly pointed to gaps in readiness.