Why Israel’s Iron Dome Is Struggling: Since June 13, 2025, Israel’s Iron Dome has faced unprecedented challenges as it tries to intercept a new wave of Iranian missile attacks. Long praised for its efficiency, the system once reliably countered short-range rocket fire from groups like Hamas and Hezbollah. Now, Iran’s increasingly complex and frequent missile barrages are pushing the Iron Dome to its limits.

What Makes the Iron Dome Work?

The Iron Dome identifies incoming projectiles using radar and quickly launches Tamir interceptor missiles to destroy them midair. Designed primarily to defend against low-altitude, short-range rockets, the system has consistently achieved success rates between 80 and 90 percent. However, its designers never intended it to handle large-scale ballistic missile attacks.

Why Iran’s Missiles Are Overwhelming the System:

Iran has changed the battlefield by relying on two key strategies: scale and sophistication. In just one week, Iranian forces launched around 1,000 projectiles, including 370 ballistic missiles. The Iron Dome struggles to keep pace. Each incoming threat often requires one or two interceptors, which quickly drains missile supplies and places enormous pressure on the system’s capacity.

In addition, Iran has deployed faster and more advanced missiles like the “Fatah,” which can travel at speeds of up to 15 times the speed of sound and change direction midair. These evasive maneuvers significantly reduce the Iron Dome’s ability to intercept them effectively.

Also Read: Trump Signals U.S. Role Crucial in Israel-Iran Standoff

Why Missiles Are Getting Through:

The result has turned deadly. Iranian rockets have struck key locations, including the Soroka Medical Center in Beersheba, as well as cities like Haifa and Tel Aviv. During high-volume attacks, the Iron Dome has intercepted only about 65% of incoming missiles, a significant drop in its usual performance. Iran has further complicated Israel’s defenses by launching decoy missiles that trick the system into wasting interceptors on non-lethal targets.

The shortage of interceptor missiles, especially for the Arrow system, has worsened the situation. Each Arrow interceptor can cost nearly $3 million, putting immense pressure on resources. As a result, Israel now spends an estimated 1 billion shekels (approximately $285 million) each night to defend against the relentless missile barrages.

What Comes Next:

Israel is quickly adjusting its defense strategy. With U.S. assistance, it has deployed systems such as Patriot batteries and THAAD. At the same time, Israeli forces are actively targeting Iranian missile launch sites to reduce the frequency of attacks. Although the Iron Dome remains a vital part of Israel’s security, Iran’s evolving missile tactics are exposing its weaknesses. To stay ahead and protect its citizens, Israel must invest in advanced technology, increase its interceptor stockpile, and strengthen strategic cooperation with its allies.

Also Read: Why Israel-Iran’s Conflict Isn’t Spiking Oil Prices: Here’s Why

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