Mixed Emotions in Israel as Strikes on Iran Spark Pride—and Anxiety

A mix of national pride and quiet anxiety has swept across Israel following a massive and unprecedented military strike on Iran’s nuclear and military facilities.

Daily life ground to a halt after the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) launched its surprise attack early on June 13. The country’s main airport shut down “until further notice,” hospitals evacuated critical patients to underground shelters, and streets in cities like Jerusalem and Tel Aviv emptied as shops and cafés closed their doors. Where stores remained open, long lines formed as people stocked up on essentials—from canned goods to espresso.

Israelis are no strangers to rocket alerts from Gaza or drones from Yemen. But this time feels different.

“We know Iran will retaliate. We just don’t know when or where. But we’re ready,” said Guy Weinberg, a 30-year-old resident.

In response to the Israeli airstrikes, Iran launched roughly 100 drones, followed by 200 ballistic missiles, killing three people and damaging several buildings. The Israeli government declared a state of emergency, shut schools and businesses, and limited public gatherings to keep people close to shelters.

“The government warned that retaliation was coming. Now, only essential workers are out. Everything else is shut down,” said Father John Paul, a Catholic priest in Jerusalem. “The mood is tense, even as many people are proud of what’s happened.”

On Israeli TV, a tone of triumph dominated coverage. Officials announced on June 14 that the strikes had eliminated 20 senior security commanders and nine top nuclear scientists in Iran. Military reporters shared satellite images and drone footage, praising the operation’s success.

“Bottom line: A stunning achievement in intelligence and precision warfare,” Roy Sharon, a military correspondent for Kan News, posted on X, applauding Israel’s ability to strike deep inside Iran.

Among supporters of the operation were teachers Sigalit, 50, and Barak, 54, who traveled to Tel Aviv for a Pride event.

“We feel safer than ever knowing Iran’s nuclear weapons were destroyed,” Sigalit said. Still, the couple left early as the event was canceled and traffic became unpredictable.

American celebrity Caitlyn Jenner, a guest of honor at the Pride event, was among many foreign visitors stranded in Israel. Meanwhile, Israeli citizens abroad flooded social media seeking ways to return home.

International airlines have suspended flights to Israel. Even El Al, the national carrier that continued operations through previous conflicts, canceled all flights on June 13 and urged passengers with tickets for June 14–15 to stay away from the airport. No new bookings are being accepted until the end of the month.

In the West Bank, under Israeli control, life has largely come to a standstill. Roads and checkpoints are shut, and Israel has closed off access to the al-Aqsa Mosque in Jerusalem, one of Islam’s holiest sites.

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu addressed the nation on June 13, warning that “this situation could last far longer than anyone has experienced before.” He urged citizens to stock up on essentials and emphasized the importance of staying patient.

“Everyone here—Israelis, Palestinians, foreigners, and international groups—is worried this could escalate into a much broader regional war,” said Father John Paul.

Still, some Israelis are determined to carry on.

Keter Benchimol, 55, flew home just before the airspace closed. She later took her son swimming at the beach. Though the shores were less crowded, some people were still out enjoying the sun.

“There’s nothing to fear. God will protect us. And if it’s my time, I could die anywhere,” she said. “But I’m relieved to be with my children. At least now, I don’t have to worry from afar.”

Source: The Guardian