Any process that results in a change in state or activity of a cell (in terms of movement, secretion, enzyme production, gene expression, etc.) as a result of deprivation of iron ions.

The chemical reactions and pathways resulting in the formation of siderophores, low molecular weight Fe(III)-chelating substances made by aerobic or facultatively anaerobic bacteria, especially when growing under iron deficient conditions. The complexes of Fe(3+)-siderophores have very high stability constants and are taken up by specific transport systems by microorganisms; the subsequent release of iron requires enzymatic action.