Iran’s use of cluster warheads has challenged Israel’s advanced missile defense network, including the Iron Dome, according to reports published on March 24, 2026. The Guardian’s analysis cited that at least 19 Iranian ballistic missiles carrying cluster warheads have struck Israel since the conflict began, killing nine and injuring dozens. The latest attack on Sunday hit central Israel, injuring 15 people, while Israeli forces said nearly half of the missiles launched by Iran carried cluster warheads.

Experts noted that intercepting cluster munitions is technically difficult because the interceptor must destroy the missile before it disperses its sub-munitions. Israel’s multi-tier defense system, designed to neutralize threats at various altitudes, is being tested by these weapons that scatter dozens of smaller bombs midair. Amnesty International previously condemned Iran’s use of cluster bombs as a severe violation of international law, though neither Iran nor Israel is a signatory to the 2008 Cluster Munitions Convention.

Analysts suggest Iran’s strategy may aim to deplete Israel’s interceptor missile reserves, forcing the country to expend costly defense resources against multiple small targets.