Story perspectives

Israel-Iran Missile Exchange Sparks Cluster Munitions Controversy

3/10/2026

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Summary

Story summary

The escalation of missile exchanges between Israel and Iran raises questions about the use of cluster munitions.
Israel and Iran are not bound by the 2008 Convention on Cluster Munitions.
Col. Liron Libman said recent Iranian strikes may violate distinction and proportionality, risking civilians.
Dutch Prime Minister Rob Jetten and Swiss Defence Minister Martin Pfister condemned the strikes as violations of international law and urged diplomacy.

History

Historical Context

The Convention on Cluster Munitions, adopted in May 2008 and signed by 94 countries in December, aimed to ban the use of cluster bombs due to their indiscriminate impact on civilians. This treaty emerged from the Oslo Process, initiated in 2007 after the 2006 Lebanon War highlighted the dangers of unexploded munitions, which disproportionately harm children. Despite this, countries like Israel and Iran remain outside the treaty, continuing missile exchanges.

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Story summary

The escalation of missile exchanges between Israel and Iran raises questions about the use of cluster munitions.
Israel and Iran are not bound by the 2008 Convention on Cluster Munitions.
Col. Liron Libman said recent Iranian strikes may violate distinction and proportionality, risking civilians.
Dutch Prime Minister Rob Jetten and Swiss Defence Minister Martin Pfister condemned the strikes as violations of international law and urged diplomacy.

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