Bomb shelters have been filling up across Israel as the war with Iran enters its third day. This has been true for cities both large and small throughout the Holy Land, and Tel Aviv is no exception. In fact, just hours after the initial U.S.-Israel strikes on Iran, the Islamic Republic launched missiles and drones at Tel Aviv and surrounding areas. Through sleepless nights and restless days, Fellowship staff have been working to ensure bomb shelters are fully prepared.
Yesterday, The Fellowship completed the installation of five mobile shelters in Tel Aviv, all of them specialized, upgraded Arbel units capable of withstanding ballistic missile attacks. Within minutes of completion, staff and residents were forced to use them as Iran continued raining down missiles and drones. The Fellowship’s quick response saved lives immediately.
At the same time, staff provided support to Tel Aviv’s public shelters, which regularly protect hundreds of people. These shelters are large, protected spaces, but they lack bedding and offer limited seating. For elderly Israelis and others with medical conditions or injuries that prevent them from standing, this creates serious hardship.
Some individuals must even be carried into shelters during emergencies because they cannot walk. Spending the night in a shelter has also become common. Children who had been inside for more than 15 hours shared that many people, especially the elderly, were falling asleep while sitting upright. Now, entire families have proper accommodations to sleep thanks to beds The Fellowship provided to the Tel Aviv public shelter.
Approximately a dozen more shelters are being prepared for communities that still lack adequate security measures. Our work does not end after installation. The Fellowship remains on the ground to ensure all shelters are fully operational and properly stocked.
“So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand” (Isaiah 41:10).
