Iran strikes Tel Aviv with cluster missiles, causing widespread damage

Iran utilized cluster missiles during a new wave of bombardment targeting Tel Aviv late Thursday, according to Israeli broadcaster Channel 12. The report indicated that multiple missile fragments fell across the city and surrounding areas, with a large fire and substantial material damage resulting from the attack . Eyewitnesses confirmed to Anadolu that fires and significant damage occurred in at least three locations in and around Israel's commercial hub .

Technical Details and Impact

According to Israel Defense Forces analysis cited by military experts, the cluster bomb warheads are designed to open during descent, scattering approximately 20 smaller submunitions containing around 2.5 kilograms of explosives each across a radius of roughly eight kilometers . These weapons release scores of explosive submunitions over wide areas, dramatically increasing the potential for casualties and infrastructure destruction. Israeli authorities have warned civilians not to approach any missile remains found on the ground, as unexploded submunitions can effectively function as landmines, posing ongoing danger .

Context of Retaliatory Strikes

The missile barrage represents the latest in Iran's "Operation True Promise 4," a series of retaliatory attacks following the US-Israeli military campaign against Iran that began February 28 . Tehran has launched waves of missiles and drones toward Israel and Gulf countries hosting US military assets in response to strikes that have killed more than 1,230 people, including Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei and senior military officials . Israeli emergency services reported visiting several impact sites but confirmed no casualties, with residents later cleared to leave shelters .