Missiles Rain Down on Israel: Indians Recount Night of Fear and Shelter
There were major rocket attacks on Israel earlier this week, and many Indian nationals in the country found themselves taking shelter in "safe rooms" or underground bunkers, a night filled with fear and uncertainty for them.
On Monday night, cities like Tel Aviv, Ashkelon, and surrounding areas were targeted by missiles reportedly launched by Hezbollah from Lebanon. Alarms echoed across Israel, warning of incoming attacks, forcing people to rush to safety.
Among those affected were Indian students, professionals, and caregivers. Videos on social media showed them tucked inside reinforced rooms, some clutching emergency kits, while others tried to stay connected with family back home. Many shared accounts of spending the night in basements, unable to sleep due to the constant sound of sirens and explosions.
In a widely circulated video, a group of Indian women working as caregivers were seen sheltering in a stairwell, visibly shaken but trying to stay calm. “We are safe for now, but scared,” one of them said.
The attacks came amid heightened tensions in the region, with the Israeli military responding to rocket fire with airstrikes on suspected Hezbollah positions. While Israel’s Iron Dome defense system intercepted several missiles, some did land, causing minor damage and injuries.
The Indian Embassy in Israel issued an advisory, urging citizens to remain vigilant, follow local instructions, and avoid unnecessary travel. They also set up emergency contact numbers for those in distress.
Though no Indian casualties have been reported so far, the Indian community remains on high alert, bracing for what might come next in a region teetering on the edge of further escalation.