Israel Lifts All Safety Restrictions for Citizens

For the first time in nearly two weeks, Israelis are breathing easier. The government’s Home Front Command lifted all restrictions across the country Tuesday, signaling an end to emergency measures meant to protect civilians from Iranian missile attacks. The announcement set off a wave of cautious relief, with cafes in Tel Aviv filling up, children returning to playgrounds, and a chorus of weary residents looking forward to a full night’s sleep.

“It’s been surreal — we were constantly on edge, waiting for the next siren,” said Yael Ben-David, a mother of three in Ashkelon. “Tonight, my kids will finally sleep in their own beds,” stated one mom in an interview.

The resumption of normal life is most visible at Ben Gurion Airport, which reopened for international flights after being shuttered by the missile threat, according to the Jerusalem Post. Airlines scrambled to restore schedules, and by late afternoon, the arrivals hall buzzed with families reunited and travelers eager to go home. Israel’s flag carrier, El Al, announced fixed prices on inbound flights to help stranded Israelis return by the end of June, a move widely praised on social media.

Flights sold out

A Metro Voice review of El Al’s website found no seats available on flights from anywhere in the world to Israel through July 1, the furthest date available.

While there may be a short-term lag as travelers make plans, experts generally expect pent-up demand and the rapid restoration of flight schedules to drive a quick recovery in tourist arrivals, barring any renewed escalation. The country’s robust tourism industry has rebounded quickly after past conflicts.

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s office credited the ceasefire, brokered late Monday, with “removing the immediate threat to Israeli citizens.” The Home Front Command declared the public could resume “full activity” — schools, workplaces, and businesses all reopening after days of tension, reported media outlets.

Israeli and world stock markets rallied Tuesday with invester confidence bolstered by the prospect that the 12-day war really did end as Trump expressed Monday.

While many remain watchful, Tuesday’s lifting of restrictions marks a hopeful turn.

–Metro Voice and wire services