Israel's Unity Amid Rising Tensions With Iran
In a rare display of political consensus, Israelis across the spectrum have rallied behind the recent US-led air strikes on Iran's nuclear facilities. The attacks, launched by the United States under President Donald Trump's order, mark a significant escalation in a conflict that has gripped the country for over ten days.
Relief Amid Continuous Threats
For more than a week, Israeli citizens have endured frequent missile alerts and taken refuge in bomb shelters, a testament to the persistent dangers posed by Iranian rockets and drones. Despite the harrowing circumstances—including the closure of businesses and schools—there is a palpable sense of relief following the US intervention.
Claudio Hazan, a software engineer in Jerusalem, remarked, "The war with Iran was inevitable. You knew it would happen sooner or later. I hope these strikes help shorten the conflict, because Israel alone would not stop until key sites like Fordo were targeted."
Robust Air Defenses Shield Israeli Cities
Thanks to advanced air defense systems, many Israeli cities have remained comparatively secure, successfully intercepting hundreds of incoming missiles. Nonetheless, some have breached the defenses, with recent impacts near Haifa and Tel Aviv underscoring the continuing risks. Official reports confirm at least 50 missile strikes nationwide and the tragic loss of 25 lives so far.
Despite suffering damage, many residents maintain steadfast support for Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s military strategy. Renana, a resident of Ramat Gan, voiced her trust in the government’s resolve: "God is with us, and the government must continue its efforts—this should have happened long ago."
Political Consensus in a Historically Divided Landscape
Typically marked by sharp political divisions, Israel’s leadership has come together in backing the actions against Iran. Opposition leader Yair Lapid publicly acknowledged the appropriateness of the current strikes despite political rivalry.
Data from the Israel Democracy Institute highlights strong public support, with approximately 70% of Israelis endorsing the military campaign. Support is notably higher among Jewish Israelis at 82%, while only about 35% of the Arab minority appear in favor, reflecting enduring ethnic and political divides.
Contrasting Views on Conflicts in Iran and Gaza
Experts note a stark contrast between the widespread backing for the Iran strikes and the more divided sentiment surrounding ongoing operations in Gaza. Critics have accused Netanyahu of prolonging the Gaza conflict for political gain and raised international legal concerns over alleged war crimes.
Dahlia Scheindlin, a political analyst, emphasized that while the Iran campaign unifies many Israelis, public opinion remains sensitive to the conflict’s duration and human cost.
A Vision for Regional Peace?
Amid the turmoil, Israeli President Isaac Herzog has called for a peaceful dialogue, extending hope for negotiations not only between Israel and Iran but also across the broader Middle East, including the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. His statement signals a desire for diplomacy even as military actions continue.
