Tehran/Tel Aviv: For the first time, Iran launched a missile carrying cluster submunitions into central Israel on Thursday, marking a grim escalation in what has already become a devastating eight‑day conflict. The Iranian missile reportedly scattered dozens of bomblets over civilian areas to maximise the chance of damage inflicted on the enemy side, reported the Hindustan Times.
What happened in the attack?
The missile exploded around 7 km high, releasing about 20 submunitions that rained down on a spread of approximately 8 km—many in populated areas, including near homes—raising the stakes for civilian harm. These weapons are notoriously indiscriminate: each can unleash hundreds of bomblets, many of which may remain unexploded and dangerously active long after the conflict subsides.
Why cluster munitions matter?
These weapons used by Iran are not ordinary missiles—they scatter bomblets that can explode unpredictably. Everything from picnic areas to playgrounds could become death traps long after the war ends.
What has been the impact?
Israeli authorities confirmed the retrieval of another civilian body, a woman—a tragic sign that the death toll, now at 25, continues to climb. On the Iranian side, Tehran reports at least 224 casualties from prior Israeli strikes, including military and scientific figures.
Global alarm and diplomatic deadlock
European diplomats, gathering in Geneva with Iran’s foreign minister Abbas Araghchi, have called Friday a last “window” for negotiation—only to see another round of rockets and warnings aimed at Israeli civilians. Diplomatic negotiations appear stalled, even as Western leaders push to prevent further escalation.
European diplomats convened in Geneva with Iranian foreign minister Abbas Araghchi on Friday in a last-ditch effort to prevent further escalation. Foreign ministers from France, Germany, the UK, and the EU urged restraint and diplomacy. British Foreign Secretary David Lammy emphasised the urgency, saying the coming two weeks represent “a window… to achieve a diplomatic solution.”
The UN Security Council is likely to hold a second emergency session on the conflict. This comes following a request from Iran backed by Russia, China, and Pakistan, diplomats said, as reported by various news organizations.
US under pressure?
Back in Washington, President Trump has hinted that the next fortnight could determine whether the US openly supports Israel. Though airstrike plans have reportedly been approved, a final decision remains pending—even as the conflict continues.
