03.04.26

Dear Residents of Ashdod,

Even—and especially—during the holiday, we continue to hold daily situation assessments with the participation of all relevant municipal officials, in order to maintain routine as much as possible.

Following the latest assessment, please note the following guidelines:

It is important to emphasize: In these days, sirens may be sounded without prior warning. In such cases, we have only 45 seconds to reach a protected space. Therefore, even during the holiday and when leaving home, heightened alertness is required. At all times, you must know the location of the nearest protected space and remain within close proximity to it.

We are coming out of a complex and intensive weekend, during which our assessments unfortunately materialized: the fire has not ceased. Over the past 24 hours, approximately 25 missiles were launched toward Israel from Iran, alongside dozens of rockets and additional missiles from Lebanon—including a strike in an open area near Ashdod on the eve of the holiday.

Fortunately, there were no direct hits in Ashdod, and prayers and synagogue gatherings across the city took place safely. The public in Ashdod once again demonstrated responsibility, discipline, and a deep understanding of the importance of adhering to the Home Front Command guidelines—compliance that saves lives.

However, we must not become complacent simply because the city was not directly hit. Not all launches originate from Iran—there is also fire from Lebanon, which may arrive more quickly and sometimes without prior warning.

At this time, there is no change in the Home Front Command directives, and they will remain in effect at least until Saturday night. It is therefore essential to continue following all instructions and to avoid taking unnecessary risks.

A key point of vulnerability during this period is synagogues. In places where people gather for prayer and may feel a sense of security, increased vigilance is required. It is important to identify in advance the nearest protected space and to respond immediately to any alert.

Municipal operations continue at full capacity. Already last night, the municipality began clearing holiday waste throughout the city to ensure cleanliness, order, and operational continuity.

Public shelters across the city remain open and available for residents.
A link to their locations is attached.

In addition, the municipal hotline 106 is available to provide information in multiple languages.

Ashdod is strong, responsible, and united. We will continue to act responsibly, follow the guidelines, and look after one another. We remain committed to maintaining routine and ensuring your well-being throughout the holiday period.

Shabbat Shalom and Happy Holidays.

Yours sincerely,
Dr. Yehiel Lasry
Mayor of Ashdod