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Israel imposed sweeping emergency measures on Saturday after Iran launched missiles and drones toward the country in retaliation for a joint U.S.-Israeli strike on Iranian targets. Defence Minister Israel Katz declared a nationwide state of emergency, warning citizens to prepare for further Iranian missile attacks and potential drone strikes.
Public gatherings were banned, schools and many workplaces were shut down, and hospitals began transferring patients to fortified underground facilities. The Israeli military called up tens of thousands of reservists to strengthen land borders and bolster national security. Police urged residents to avoid non-essential travel to ensure emergency vehicles could move freely during the crisis.
Despite heightened tensions, Israel’s advanced air defense system intercepted many incoming projectiles, with few initial reports of injuries or major damage. The country’s nationwide alert system instructed residents to seek shelter, and most Israelis have access to reinforced safe rooms or bomb shelters.
In Tel Aviv, where key military installations are located, some residents expressed support for the military operation against Iran. Similar areas, including parts of southern Israel with military bases, were targeted during last year’s 12-day aerial conflict between Israel and Iran. That confrontation, which followed a surprise Israeli strike and subsequent U.S. involvement, resulted in more than 30 deaths in Israel and over 900 fatalities in Iran.
Israel temporarily closed its airspace to civilian flights, though land crossings with Egypt and Jordan remained open. The U.S. Embassy in Jerusalem advised government personnel to shelter in place and previously offered staff the option to leave the country.
Meanwhile, residents in Jerusalem rushed to buy food and withdraw cash as missile interceptions echoed overhead. At Sheba Medical Center near Tel Aviv, hospital wards were relocated underground as part of advanced emergency preparedness measures, underscoring the seriousness of the escalating Israel-Iran conflict.
