Mixed Reactions Among Israelis Following U.S. Strikes on Iran: Optimism for Change Versus Skepticism


Both elation and fear were widespread in Israel amid uncertainty over what comes next.

Israelis awoke on Sunday to a new reality after the United States military joined Israel’s war against Iran with a significant pre-dawn attack on three of its key nuclear sites. Many were confused about what that reality might entail.

Some Israelis expressed elation, believing their country was entering a new era of peace and prosperity, relieved of the threat posed by a nuclear-armed Iran. Conversely, others worried that the American intervention could provoke a stronger Iranian retaliation and lead to a broader, prolonged conflict.

The division of opinion was evident among supporters and detractors of President Trump and Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, among those sharing space in bomb shelters, within families, and among individuals uncertain of the ultimate outcome.

Around 7:30 a.m., a few hours after the American strikes, Iran launched two barrages of ballistic missiles, forcing millions of Israelis into bomb shelters while the Israeli Air Force continued its strikes on Iranian targets.

Despite the challenges, many Israelis, including Yair Lapid, the leader of the political opposition, acknowledged the events as “historic,” regardless of their outcomes, and expressed gratitude to Mr. Trump, stating that “Israel, the Middle East and the world are now safer.”

Residents like Eldad Ella, 48, expressed joy over the developments, viewing Mr. Netanyahu and Mr. Trump as saviors, while his friend Tomer Shoshani, 49, shared optimism about a potential end to wars and a return to normalcy.

Israel’s air defenses intercepted most of the Iranian missiles, but at least two direct hits caused significant damage in a Tel Aviv neighborhood and in a city about 15 miles south, with additional damage in Haifa to the north. Over 20 people were reported wounded, mostly with light injuries, prompting the closure of schools and nonessential businesses while many took refuge in shelters or fortified safe rooms.

Shelly Lixenberg, 61, relocated from her apartment in North Tel Aviv due to mobility issues and expressed relief at the U.S. strikes against Iran, emphasizing the need for the mission to be completed. However, she remained skeptical about the conclusion of the nuclear threat and feared escalation.

In Jerusalem, residents displayed Israeli flags in a show of patriotism, but the missiles had disrupted daily life even as the city experienced relatively less danger. Daniel Karni, 21, a music student, expressed hope that U.S. intervention might bring an end to the conflict, criticizing the government for lacking clear objectives.

Ghassan Bazazu, 24, a Palestinian from the Old City of East Jerusalem, lamented the loss of his job due to reduced tourism amid the ongoing conflict. He predicted that the war could continue for another three years, reflecting a broader sense of despair among residents.

Emergency personnel responded to multiple sites impacted by the missile strikes, highlighting the ongoing volatility in the region.





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