Iranian Missile Attack Injures 15 in Central Israel

An Iranian ballistic missile carrying cluster munitions struck central Israel on Sunday, injuring 15 people, including one seriously. This marks the fourth such attack by Iran since midnight. The missile dispersed bomblets over a wide area encompassing Tel Aviv and nearby cities, causing damage to several homes and roads.

Tel Aviv Sourasky Medical Center-Ichilov reported receiving seven injured individuals, four of whom are in moderate condition. The Magen David Adom ambulance service identified the most serious injury as a 53-year-old man. In Jaffa, a projectile hit a residential building, and in Petah Tikva, an impact ignited a fire in a residential area; however, no serious injuries were reported in these locations.

Earlier in the day, around 7 a.m., another missile attack believed to contain a cluster bomb warhead damaged a road, though no direct injuries were reported. Subsequent attacks targeting central and southern Israel triggered sirens and prompted residents to seek shelter but did not result in reported damage or injuries.

These incidents follow two direct hits on Saturday evening in Dimona and Arad, which injured hundreds and hospitalized dozens. As of Sunday morning, 36 individuals remained hospitalized from these strikes, including a 12-year-old boy in serious condition and 18 children in Arad.

Investigations by the military's Home Front Command revealed that most injuries from Saturday's attacks occurred among individuals who were not inside bomb shelters at the time of impact. In Dimona, a missile carrying a conventional warhead struck near homes, causing extensive damage and injuries. Similarly, in Arad, a missile hit a courtyard between apartment buildings, resulting in significant damage and nearly 90 injuries. The Israel Defense Forces noted that those who were in shelters were largely unharmed.

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, visiting the impact site in Arad, emphasized the importance of seeking shelter during attacks. "If everyone had gone to protected areas in time, to the shelters that are there under every home, no one would have been wounded," he stated. Netanyahu also highlighted the broader threat posed by Iran, noting its capacity to reach deep into Europe and its targeting of areas near holy sites in Jerusalem.

Opposition Leader Yair Lapid, also visiting the site, called for the elimination of all of Iran's ballistic capabilities, emphasizing the need to address the ongoing threat.

Since the conflict began on February 28, Iran has launched over 400 ballistic missiles at Israel, with an interception rate of 92% for those targeting populated areas and key infrastructure. Despite these defenses, several missiles have struck populated areas, causing extensive damage and casualties.