Iran Fires Cluster Missile at Israel; Death Toll Rises and Diplomacy Underway

Iran has reportedly launched a missile carrying cluster submunitions into central Israel, marking the first use of such weapons in the current eight-day conflict. Israeli officials said the missile exploded mid-air, scattering around 20 bomblets across an 8-kilometer radius in civilian areas. The Israeli embassy in Washington condemned the attack, calling it a direct strike on a densely populated zone.

The death toll continues to rise on both sides. Israel confirmed one more fatality, bringing its total to 25. Iran has reported at least 224 deaths from Israeli airstrikes, including top military officials, nuclear scientists, and civilians. No recent update has been provided by Tehran.

Tensions escalated further after an Iranian missile hit Soroka Hospital in Beersheba, injuring 40 people. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu vowed harsh retaliation, while Iran claimed the intended target was a nearby military base. In response, Israel struck Iranian nuclear sites, including the Arak reactor and Natanz uranium facility, aiming to disable any restoration efforts.

Meanwhile, diplomatic efforts are underway. European foreign ministers are meeting Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi in Geneva to prevent further escalation. The UN Security Council is also preparing for an emergency session, requested by Iran and supported by Russia, China, and Pakistan.

U.S. President Donald Trump stated he would decide within two weeks whether to support Israeli military action. Though strike plans are in place, he is waiting for Iran to show signs of abandoning its nuclear ambitions. Satellite imagery suggests the U.S. has already relocated military aircraft from Qatar as a precaution.

In Tehran, Brigadier General Majid Khadami has been appointed as the new head of the Revolutionary Guards’ intelligence division, following the death of his predecessor and other top commanders in Israeli strikes.