As the one-year mark of Israel’s war with Hamas approaches, the city of Tel Aviv appears to be returning to normalcy, but a sense of uncertainty and despondency hangs over its residents. The war’s brutal impact is still felt, and the threat of further escalation looms large, casting a dark shadow over the city. For many Israelis, the war has shattered their sense of security and stability, leaving deep emotional scars and a sense of hopelessness. The nearly 100 hostages still held captive in Gaza, with less than 70 believed to be alive, serve as a constant reminder of the war’s devastating consequences.
The war’s toll has been felt across the country, with Israelis experiencing attacks from various locations, including Iran, Hezbollah, Yemen, and even at home. The international community has accused Israel of committing war crimes and genocide in Gaza, further straining relationships. As a result, Israelis are struggling to come to terms with the new reality, where the prolonged nature of the war has worn down the nation’s resilience.
Internally, the war has created deep divisions within Israeli society, with secular Jewish Israelis who oppose Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s government calling for a ceasefire deal to free the hostages, while most right-wing Jews support continuing the war. The war’s impact is not limited to politics and security; it has also affected daily life, leaving many feeling anxious and uneasy. Residents are advised to check for bomb shelters, and even simple activities like going to the beach or attending a concert become a risk.
Despite the challenges, many Israelis are trying to find ways to cope, such as by running community-based initiatives like Cafe Otef, a coffee shop in Tel Aviv that aims to provide a sense of normalcy and purpose. The owner, Reut Karp, explained that the cafe gives her and her community a sense of hope and purpose, even in the face of ongoing trauma.
As the one-year mark of the war approaches, it is clear that the consequences of the conflict will be felt for a long time, and the war’s shadow will continue to hangs over Tel Aviv, a constant reminder of the devastating impact it has had on the lives of Israelis.