Thousands of Israelis flocked this morning, Friday, to major stores and retail centers to stock up on food and essential goods, just hours after an Israeli airstrike targeted nuclear and military sites in the Iranian capital, Tehran, amid growing fears of a possible Iranian attack in direct response to the operation.

According to what was reported by Channel 12 in Israel, this influx came after strict instructions from the home front command, urging residents to prepare to stay for long periods inside protected areas and shelters in anticipation of any sudden military escalation.

The Times of Israel reported that this collective behavior is considered "expected given the unprecedented tension with Iran," noting that security officials warned that military operations could last several days, while Israel is raising its alert level across various areas.

Immediate Changes in Shelter Policy

The Israeli army issued a statement this morning announcing an "immediate change in the shelter policy for the home front," confirming that all areas of the country are transitioning to a level of only necessary operations.

The new measures include:

Prohibiting educational activities in schools and universities.

Suspending all public gatherings and open events.

Closing non-essential institutions, allowing only essential work facilities to remain open.

The army urged citizens to follow the instructions carefully and to adhere to shelters and safe rooms when necessary, amid expectations of the country facing missile or drone attacks in the coming hours or days.

Netanyahu: "You may be asked to stay in shelters for a long time"

In a televised speech from the emergency headquarters, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said:

"There are no free wars, and we may be facing tough days ahead. I ask you to adhere to the instructions issued by the home front command. You may be asked to stay in protected areas for much longer than you are used to."

Netanyahu emphasized that Israel "will do whatever is necessary to defend its citizens," considering that the Iranian response "will not go unanswered," referring to preparedness for widespread escalation.