Indian nationals in Israel have taken shelter in underground bunkers as tensions between Israel and Iran escalated, following missile strikes and retaliatory attacks across the region. Air-raid sirens sounded in multiple Israeli cities, including Tel Aviv, prompting residents to rush for cover, while distant sounds of intercepts and explosions added to the growing alarm.

Videos circulating on social media show families huddled in shelters amid the alerts. Many of the Indian workers in Israel, who migrated for construction and other employment opportunities to support families back home, are now directly affected by the conflict. Local reports indicate that the Gujarati community and other Indian groups remain unharmed so far, but fear and uncertainty are widespread as the situation continues to evolve.

The escalation follows Israel’s announcement on Saturday that its forces, in coordination with the United States, carried out strikes on multiple sites in Tehran where senior Iranian officials were gathered. According to the Israeli military, the operation targeted high-profile figures involved in planning actions against Israel, with initial assessments of the results still underway. Israel also indicated that the campaign could extend to other areas if deemed necessary.

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Israel’s public broadcaster Kan reported that the strikes were directed at key Iranian leaders, including Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, President Masoud Pezeshkian, and adviser Ali Shamkhani, a former defence minister. An anonymous Israeli security source described the initial strikes as targeting “high-profile” figures critical to Iran’s political-security planning. In response, Iran launched missile attacks towards Israel, triggering nationwide alerts, school closures, bans on public gatherings, and the movement of some hospital patients to underground shelters.

The Indian Ministry of External Affairs expressed deep concern over the unfolding situation in Israel, Iran, and the wider Gulf region. The government urged restraint, emphasized the protection of civilians, and confirmed that Indian missions are monitoring developments closely while keeping in touch with citizens in affected areas. Advisories have been issued for Indians in Israel to remain vigilant and follow local instructions.

As the conflict continues, both countries are closely watched by the international community due to the potential for broader regional destabilization. Observers note that the strikes on senior officials, along with Iran’s retaliatory missile attacks, could escalate the confrontation further, impacting not only local populations but also foreign nationals residing in the region.

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