Sirens sounded across Tel Aviv and Israel on Saturday, February 28, 2026, signaling the beginning of a war with Iran – the second such conflict in eight months. As the alerts went out, residents sought safety in bomb shelters, transforming communal spaces into temporary homes.
An Improvised Community
Roberto Sciunnach was hauling his second mattress down the steps to a bomb shelter beneath Basel Square in north Tel Aviv when the sirens began. The shelter, initially nearly empty, quickly filled with adults, children, pets, and belongings as families prepared to settle in for the night. Those seeking refuge came from diverse backgrounds, bringing different foods and perspectives, but united by a shared hope for safety.
Sciunnach, a father of a two-year-old boy and a six-month-old baby girl, described the scene as a “pajama party,” aiming to normalize the experience for his son. He and his family had previously sheltered in their building during a war in June, but found the Basel Square shelter more secure and convenient, avoiding repeated trips up and down stairs.
Familiar Faces, Shared Experiences
For some, the shelter offered a sense of familiarity. Nelly and Elyane, both from Belgium, had met during the previous conflict in June and were reunited at the shelter. They noted that the experience was easier this time, as they were already accustomed to the routine and the weather was more temperate than in June.
Despite the anxiety and fatigue, a sense of camaraderie emerged. A young couple, Harel Stavi and their partner, who had recently moved in together, found themselves sharing a meal of jachnun – a traditional Yemeni Jewish pastry – with fellow shelter-dwellers after a delivery arrived during a siren. Others passed the time with games, conversation, and even a pop-up tent erected by one resourceful family.
Frequently Asked Questions
What prompted people to seek shelter?
Sirens sounded across Tel Aviv and Israel, warning of incoming Iranian ballistic missiles and drones, prompting residents to seek safety in bomb shelters.
How did families attempt to cope with the situation?
Families brought games, mattresses, and food to the shelter, attempting to create a normal environment for their children and each other.
Did people know each other in the shelter?
Some shelter occupants, like Nelly and Elyane, had met during a previous conflict in June. Others, like Harel Stavi and their partner, were meeting their fellow shelter-dwellers for the first time.
As the evening progressed, the shelter emptied somewhat, but families remained prepared for a long night, with one parent even offering to run errands for their neighbors.
Worth a look