In one of the most intense escalations yet, Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps launched the 21st wave of “Operation True Promise 4” using advanced Kheibar Sheikan ballistic missiles fitted with cluster-munition warheads. Overnight footage shows multiple detonations and fires erupting across central Tel Aviv and nearby cities as submunitions scattered over urban areas. Israeli defenses intercepted dozens of projectiles, but several waves penetrated, causing fires near Ben Gurion Airport and residential districts. Millions of Israelis were forced into bomb shelters for several hours.

Iranian state television described the barrage as a “powerful and successful” response to ongoing U.S.-Israeli airstrikes on Tehran. Israeli military officials confirmed some impacts and limited structural damage but reported no major casualties so far; investigations into civilian injuries continue.

Defense analysts note that the use of cluster munitions marks a significant escalation in Iran’s retaliatory tactics, designed to overwhelm layered air-defense systems. The attack has heightened fears of wider civilian involvement in the conflict and prompted emergency UN Security Council meetings.