Ramat Gan faced a wave of destruction on Thursday morning as missile strikes hit the city, resulting in significant injuries and damage. The explosions occurred shortly after air raid sirens sounded, targeting a mixed residential and business area. Rescue operations were challenged, with teams extracting victims from the debris, including a mother and her infant, as well as several pets.
As a part of a broader attack primarily originating from Iran, 129 individuals were reported injured in the Tel Aviv metropolitan area, with 89 victims impacted in Holon and Ramat Gan, and 40 in Be’er Sheva due to a missile strike on Soroka Hospital. Among those injured, at least six individuals are classified as seriously hurt.
Eyewitness accounts from residents like Renana highlight the gravity of the situation. She expressed gratitude for the shelter that protected her and her daughter, stating, “No home, but alive.” Meanwhile, frustrations from business owners emerged as criticism targeted the government for inadequate safety measures amid such dangers. Local business owner Avi Haimov voiced concerns about the lack of protection, stating, “People almost died here today, and the finance minister boasts about a strong economy.”
Superintendent Eli Tubul, who led the first response teams, described the harrowing rescue efforts, noting the difficulty of accessing the upper floors of a damaged 26-story building without functioning elevators. He shared a touching moment of rescuing a frightened four-year-old boy, emphasizing the importance of their work to save lives.
The impact zone remains highly dangerous, with officials warning the public to stay away from the area. The missile strike occurred close to the Lithuanian embassy, which fortunately sustained no damage, while the Dutch embassy reported minor impacts as well.
Following the missile strike at Soroka Hospital, a significant evacuation of patients is underway to ensure they receive necessary care at alternative facilities. The hospital remains closed to all but life-threatening emergencies, highlighting the ongoing challenges facing healthcare services in the region.
Despite the dire situation, the resilience of the affected residents and the dedication of first responders shine through. As recovery efforts commence, there is hope that lives can be restored and that safety measures will be prioritized in the future to prevent such tragedies.