As tensions between Israel and Iran escalate into direct confrontation, Israeli citizens living in neighborhoods struck by Iranian missiles are expressing widespread support for the government’s decision to respond militarily. Despite the destruction and trauma wrought by recent attacks, the prevailing sentiment among many is one of resilience, unity, and the conviction that strength must be met with strength.
The renewed conflict began just days ago, when Iran launched over 100 ballistic and cruise missiles at Israel in retaliation for Israeli airstrikes on its military installations near Isfahan. The Iranian barrage, which struck multiple cities including Ashdod, Netanya, and parts of southern Tel Aviv, caused civilian casualties, damaged infrastructure, and disrupted daily life. But rather than sow fear or dissent, the attacks have galvanized support for Israel’s counteroffensive.
In Bat Yam, a coastal city south of Tel Aviv that suffered direct hits, residents gathered in a damaged community center, now serving as an emergency shelter. “They thought they could scare us,” said Lior Avrahami, a local high school teacher whose apartment was partially destroyed. “But all they did was remind us that we need to stand together and hit back harder.”
That sentiment echoes across the country, especially in areas that bore the brunt of the missile attacks. Emergency responders, volunteers, and citizens are working around the clock to repair damage and restore normalcy—yet many also express frustration at what they view as years of unchecked Iranian aggression. “Iran has been arming proxies and threatening us for years,” said Miriam Dayan, a resident of Petah Tikva. “It was only a matter of time before it came to this. And now that it has, we can’t show weakness.”
Israeli military officials stated that recent retaliatory strikes have hit key Iranian command centers, weapons depots, and missile launch sites. The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) reported that its Iron Dome system intercepted about 85% of incoming missiles, but acknowledged that no system is foolproof.
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu addressed the nation following the attacks, vowing to continue operations until Israel’s safety is assured. “We are not the aggressors. But we will not sit idle while our cities burn,” he said. His words have found broad support among the public.
Even among those who have suffered direct loss, there is a strong current of national unity. In a makeshift tent outside Ichilov Hospital, where dozens of injured civilians are being treated, volunteers distribute food and blankets. “This is our home,” said Matan Elias, a medical student and volunteer. “We defend it together.”
The conflict has also reignited debates internationally. The United Nations Security Council held an emergency session, with calls from some members—including France and Brazil—for a ceasefire. But other nations, including the United States and the United Kingdom, stood firmly behind Israel’s right to self-defense.
White House officials confirmed that U.S. military and intelligence support to Israel would continue. President Biden, in a televised statement, said: “We support Israel not just as an ally, but as a nation defending its people from an existential threat.”
Meanwhile, within Israel, the political climate—often fractured—has seen a rare moment of unity. Opposition leaders, typically critical of Netanyahu’s leadership, have temporarily set aside disputes to present a united front. “There is a time for politics and a time for defense,” said Yair Lapid. “Now is the time to defend our people.”
Despite the destruction, many Israelis believe this conflict is a necessary reckoning. “We’ve lived under the shadow of Iran for too long,” said Reut Shimoni, a tech worker displaced from Holon. “This time, we’re pushing back. And most of us agree it was long overdue.”