Israelis are facing a tense situation as the threat of an Iranian attack looms over the Middle East. The recent assassination of Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh in Tehran has heightened tensions, with Iran vowing to retaliate. While Israel has not confirmed its involvement in the assassination, the possibility of missile and drone attacks from Iran and its proxies has led to a surge in preparations among Israelis.
Many Israelis have been stocking up on essentials such as food, water, and batteries in anticipation of a potential attack. The rush to stores echoes the atmosphere prior to Iran's previous missile and drone onslaught in April. Despite the looming threat, some Israelis, like Yael Sasson from Ashkelon, remain resolute in their daily routines.
Sasson, a 56-year-old homemaker and mother of two, expressed confidence in Israel's defense capabilities and emphasized the importance of preparedness. She noted that while there is a sense of concern in the air, life in Ashkelon continues relatively unchanged, with parks and beaches still bustling with people.
Similarly, Nick Gottlieb, a 26-year-old U.S. immigrant working in Tel Aviv, shared that life in the city appears to be proceeding as usual. Despite the underlying tension, Tel Aviv's beaches, markets, and bars remain active, reflecting a sense of resilience among its residents.
Gottlieb expressed his trust in Israel's defensive strength and voiced a strong stance against Iran's threats. He believes that Iran's reliance on oil revenue and support for terrorist groups leaves its regime vulnerable, and he is confident in Israel's ability to respond effectively if provoked.
Overall, while the specter of a potential Iranian attack hangs over the region, Israelis like Sasson and Gottlieb are determined to carry on with their lives, placing their faith in the defensive capabilities of the Israel Defense Forces and maintaining a sense of normalcy amidst the uncertainty.
