Girl, 11, critically hurt by Iranian cluster bomb as repeated salvos target center

Key Points:

• An Iranian ballistic missile carrying a cluster bomb warhead struck central Israel, injuring 14 people including an 11-year-old girl in critical condition in Bnei Brak, near Tel Aviv, ahead of Passover Seder preparations.
• The missile attack caused multiple impacts in Bnei Brak and Tel Aviv, damaging homes, businesses, and vehicles, with first responders evacuating small children from affected buildings.
• Following the initial strike, three additional missile attacks occurred, including one by Yemen’s Houthis targeting southern Israel, which was intercepted by the IDF with no reported injuries.
• The Houthis claimed responsibility for a coordinated missile barrage in the south, alleging collaboration with Iran and Hezbollah, as they intensify their involvement in the conflict.
• Since February 28, over 500 Iranian ballistic missiles have been launched at Israel, with a 92% interception rate by the military, though several missiles carrying cluster bombs have caused significant damage and casualties in populated areas.