Israel Arms Factory Linked to Iran War Burned in Czech Republic

A facility linked to Israeli arms manufacturer Elbit Systems was damaged by fire in Pardubice, Czech Republic, on Friday, March 20, 2026. A group calling itself The Earthquake Faction has claimed responsibility for the blaze, which authorities are investigating as a potential act of terror.

The fire broke out in the early morning hours at a complex operated by LPP Holding, a Czech company that collaborates with Elbit Systems, according to statements released by LPP Holding and reported by CNN Indonesia. LPP Holding develops and produces drones and other military equipment. No injuries were reported.

Elbit Systems describes itself as a major supplier of land and air weaponry used by the Israeli military in its conflicts, including in Gaza and Iran, as reported by Al Jazeera. The Earthquake Faction, in a statement disseminated via Telegram, declared the targeted location a “central production hub for Israeli weapons.”

“Now, it is burning,” the group stated, adding, “We are at the heart of evil, surrounded by the stench of wickedness.” The group further asserted its intention to take “necessary actions to extinguish their way of killing” and rejected appeals to international governments, according to reports from detik.com and suara global.id.

Czech Interior Minister Lubomir Metnar stated that police are examining all available information, including the possibility of a terrorist connection, according to AFP reports. “We are investigating all available information. There is a possibility of a connection to a terrorist attack,” Metnar said.

The incident has drawn international attention, particularly given its geopolitical implications. Suara Global.id reported that the facility played a role in the production of military technology, including air and land defense systems.

As of Friday evening, Elbit Systems had not issued a public statement regarding the extent of the damage or the impact on its operations. Czech authorities have not announced any arrests in connection with the incident. The investigation remains ongoing.