Sirens blared across Israel as Iranian missiles struck, prompting citizens to seek refuge in public and private bomb shelters. This recent barrage has underscored a significant concern regarding the availability of protected spaces in a nation that has long prepared for potential conflict with Iran. According to a report by Israel’s state comptroller released in January, more than three million people in Israel reside in areas lacking “standard protection.” This alarming statistic indicates the vulnerability of nearly a third of the population in the event of Iranian ballistic missile attacks.
The issue of inadequate shelter is particularly pronounced in Arab communities within Israel, where public bomb shelters are scarce. The state comptroller’s report reveals that only 37 out of 11,775 public shelters are located in Arab municipalities, and eight of these are deemed unfit for use. “People are facing real danger,” said Atiya al-Asam, an activist leader in the Bedouin community in southern Israel. “They’re terrified.”
Many Bedouin communities, particularly those unrecognized by the Israeli government, have long been deprived of essential services, including running water, sewage systems, electricity, and even basic infrastructure like paved roads. During the Israel-Iran war in June 2025, 32 individuals lost their lives, and thousands more were injured, as reported by the Israeli government. Officials indicated that the presence of shelters and fortified rooms played a crucial role in saving lives during that conflict.
In response to these ongoing challenges, the Israeli military’s Homefront Command has initiated discussions on the necessity of increasing the number of protected spaces. They are collaborating with municipalities to enhance existing shelters, according to two Israeli security officials who requested anonymity due to the sensitive nature of the information. Despite these efforts, the state comptroller’s report indicates that more than six million Israelis still have access to public and private shelters and fortified rooms.
In Tel Aviv, one of Israel’s largest and most affluent cities, municipal officials have expressed confidence in the adequacy of shelter provisions for residents. “We can always have more,” stated Eyal Kedar, an official in the municipality’s emergency response department. “But in terms of numbers, there’s enough for more than those living here.”
This situation raises pressing questions about the infrastructure and safety of communities across Israel, particularly those that have historically been marginalized. As the threat from Iran persists, the emphasis on improving shelter availability and ensuring safety for all citizens remains critical. The ongoing conflict and its repercussions will likely continue to shape discussions around national security and community resilience in Israel.
