In brief
On June 19, 2025, Israel accused Iran of utilizing cluster munitions in a missile attack targeting populated areas, the first report of its kind during the ongoing conflict. Despite the absence of casualties, experts emphasize the indiscriminate dangers posed by such weapons.
The Israeli military reported on June 19, 2025, that Iran had launched a ballistic missile armed with cluster munitions at central Israel, specifically hitting areas near Or Yehuda. Lt. Col. Nadav Shoshani, a military spokesperson, classified this incident as the first confirmed use of cluster munitions in the current conflict. Following the missile strike, which apparently did not result in any fatalities or injuries, Iran’s mission to the United Nations chose not to comment on the situation.Cluster munitions are controversial weapons that release numerous smaller bombs or bomblets upon impact, increasing the risk of civilian casualties. While over 100 nations have signed a treaty to ban these munitions, neither Iran nor Israel are party to this agreement, mirroring positions held by major world powers such as the United States, Russia, China, and India.Verification from independent sources, including videos and photographs by The New York Times, confirmed the presence of an unexploded bomblet at a residential location in Or Yehuda. This object resembles a submunition associated with Iranian missile capabilities first documented in 2014. Military expert Fabian Hinz from the International Institute for Strategic Studies noted that the use of these types of munitions might increase the likelihood of striking less protected, softer targets, such as air-defense systems, without requiring a high level of destructive force. In his assessment, the geographical spread of such attacks can adequately achieve mission objectives despite limitations in precision targeting. The implications of this accusation could raise significant concerns regarding the humanitarian impacts of conflict in the region, as well as the international responses to weapon usage that dangers civilian lives.
