A missile that splits into bombs mid-air: Why Israel fears Iran’s cluster strikes

Team TOI Plus
Mar 14, 2026 | 15:51 IST
Seen above Tel Aviv in March

When cluster warheads burst, they scatter dozens of bomblets across cities, turning one missile into many explosions. Israeli officials say Iran is increasingly using them — weapons that complicate air defences and endanger civilians below

As glowing orange fireballs streak across the Tel Aviv sky and air-raid sirens wail, residents scramble for shelter.

For many Israelis, the fear is no longer just the missile itself; it is what the missile might be carrying.
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