Israel implemented emergency measures Saturday, closing schools and banning public gatherings as Iran launched retaliatory missile strikes. Defense Minister Israel Katz declared a nationwide emergency while tens of thousands of military reservists were called to active duty.
Israel implemented sweeping emergency protocols Saturday, shuttering educational institutions and prohibiting public assemblies as Iran fired missiles at the country in response to a combined American-Israeli military operation against Tehran.
Defense Minister Israel Katz announced a nationwide emergency declaration, alerting citizens about incoming Iranian missile and drone strikes targeting the nation.
Israeli military officials instructed civilians to adhere to emergency protocols while announcing the mobilization of tens of thousands of reserve forces, including troops deployed to strengthen border defenses. Law enforcement agencies requested citizens avoid unnecessary trips to ensure emergency and security vehicles could operate without obstruction.
Despite the threat, some Tel Aviv residents visited coastal areas Saturday before Iran’s initial response began, expressing confidence in their advanced air defense capabilities and voicing approval for military action against Iran.
“It’s about time,” said Shira Dorany as she took a walk along Tel Aviv’s Mediterranean-front promenade.
“I don’t want to wait anymore for what’s coming. Now, it’s coming. Let’s finish it.”
Initial reports indicated minimal damage or casualties from Iran’s opening missile volleys. Israeli citizens typically have access to protective shelters and receive warnings through a comprehensive national alert network.
The two nations previously engaged in aerial combat last year following Israel’s surprise June assault on Iran, which the United States subsequently joined. That 12-day conflict resulted in over 30 Israeli deaths and more than 900 Iranian casualties.
Tel Aviv, home to several military installations, sustained numerous hits during the previous year’s conflict, along with southern Israeli regions housing military facilities.
Israeli authorities suspended civilian air traffic Saturday while keeping land crossings with Egypt and Jordan operational, according to airport authority representatives.
The American Embassy in Jerusalem instructed government staff to shelter in place, following Friday’s advisory allowing personnel to depart the country voluntarily.
Jerusalem residents were observed hurrying to purchase food supplies and withdraw cash as sounds of missile interceptions reverberated throughout the city.
Medical personnel at Sheba Medical Center near Tel Aviv relocated entire hospital units to underground levels.
“(Sheba) switched to advanced preparedness mode in preparation for the strike in Iran. We are in the process of moving all our departments and services into protected areas,” said Itai Pessach, the medical center’s director general.
At Tel Aviv’s shoreline, Maayan Eliasi, 43, described Israeli military action against Iran as essential “to establish that we are strong.”
“We are not scared, and we are here to protect our land.”