Israel Under Fire: Iranian Missile with Cluster Warhead Strikes Central Israel

The Israeli Home Front Command confirmed the missile broke apart mid-air at approximately 7,000 meters, scattering about 20 explosive submunitions over an 8-kilometer radius. One submunition struck a home, causing structural damage but no reported fatalities.

The attack comes amid escalating hostilities between the two regional powers, following Israel’s recent strikes on Iranian nuclear and military sites. Four of around 20 Iranian missiles fired overnight made direct impact, including on Soroka Medical Center in Beersheba and buildings in Ramat Gan and Holon, wounding dozens.

A senior Israeli military official told The Times of Israel that while the submunitions contain a relatively small explosive payload—around 2.5 kilograms each—they pose a wider-area threat and complicate civilian protection efforts.

France and other countries have begun organizing the evacuation of nationals from the region, while Russia and China condemned Israel’s retaliatory strikes, calling for urgent diplomatic resolution.

The escalation marks a dangerous turning point in the Middle East conflict, with international leaders warning of a potential regional war.