30.03.26

Dear Residents of Ashdod,

Following the situation assessment, here are the main points and guidelines:

Today, the Minister of Environmental Protection, Ms. Idit Silman, joined the situation assessment. She was presented with the city’s preparedness for all emergency scenarios: protection systems, public information efforts, response protocols in the event of a missile strike, operational procedures at impact sites, and rapid recovery processes.
“Ashdod is impressive in its conduct during emergencies. The city faces significant challenges, but it is clearly managed with great responsibility,” the Minister noted.

We are coming after a night of dozens of launches toward the north, from Iran and Lebanon, and over the past day the south has also become a more active target. Therefore, there is no change in defensive policy, and no change is expected at least until the coming Saturday.

The city is preparing for two possible scenarios: providing immediate assistance to affected residents, and rapid evacuation and rehabilitation of sites and infrastructure. At the same time, full functional continuity is being maintained, including sanitation services and preparations for the holiday.

The possibility of easing gathering restrictions was also discussed in a meeting between local authority heads and the Southern District Commander of the Home Front Command—but was rejected. The public is required to continue avoiding gatherings, remain vigilant, and enter protected spaces immediately upon receiving an alert. The emergency routine must not be taken for granted.

The police are deployed throughout the city ahead of the holiday, and full cooperation is being maintained with all security and emergency forces.

The distribution of recreational relief kits to residential buildings with protected spaces across the city is being carried out gradually, with priority given to buildings housing ten or more children. Please be patient—the volunteers are responsible for distribution and will reach everyone who meets the criteria.

In addition, assistance to senior citizens continues, including thousands of phone calls, home visits, and distribution of relief kits. We deeply appreciate the resilience demonstrated by our senior residents.

At the same time, preparations for Passover continue, and we greatly value the public’s responsibility, cooperation, and involvement. As you prepare for shopping and visiting commercial centers, please plan ahead: identify the nearest protected space, and in the event of an early warning, move toward it. Continue to remain vigilant and avoid taking risks. An incident in the days leading up to the holiday could have serious consequences, and therefore personal responsibility is especially important.

Ashdod is strong and united.

Sincerely,
Dr. Yehiel Lasry
Mayor of Ashdod