Tel Aviv, March 3 (NationPress) As the conflict in West Asia intensifies and flights are grounded, numerous tourists in Tel Aviv have found refuge in well-equipped public bunkers. Among them is Joyce from the Netherlands, who recounted her experience of navigating the uncertain circumstances while trapped in Israel.

In an interview with IANS, Joyce explained that she traveled to Israel with her husband and children for a vacation but has been unable to return home due to flight cancellations. “Our original departure was set for March 1, but flights have been suspended. So, for the moment, we are staying here,” the Dutch woman shared.

Detailing the conditions inside the bunker, Joyce remarked, “We have managed to create a small tent and borrowed blankets and cushions from fellow tourists. Whenever the situation escalates, we retreat here to sleep.”

She emphasized that the facility feels secure, especially for children. “Just yesterday, I was in another bunker where the sound of bombing was audible. Here, we hear nothing. It’s significantly better for the kids,” she added.

Joyce also commended the management and security measures in place.

“There is a toilet on the upper level that is cleaned daily. Food is available for purchase, and the people here are incredibly kind and supportive,” she mentioned.

Highlighting the alert systems, she pointed out, “The alarm systems work effectively. We have an app on our phones that notifies us if it’s safe to go upstairs or not.”

On February 28, Tehran experienced massive explosions after Israel initiated what it termed “preventive” missile strikes against Iran, significantly heightening regional tensions, according to local media.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu asserted that Iran deliberately targets civilians, while Israel and the United States focus on “mass terrorists,” justifying recent military actions and praising US President Donald Trump as “resolute.”

Before deciding on military responses against Iran, President Trump had reiterated the message at least 74 times: Tehran must not acquire nuclear weapons.

The White House stated on Monday that President Trump has been “unequivocal and consistent for decades” regarding preventing Iran from obtaining nuclear capabilities. It released a collection of his statements spanning 15 years, beginning in November 2011.

On Tuesday, Iran's Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi sharply criticized comments made by US Secretary of State Marco Rubio, claiming there was never any “Iranian threat” and blaming what he called “Israel Firsters” for the bloodshed of both Americans and Iranians.

Rubio stated on Monday (local time) that Washington launched strikes on Iran after becoming aware that its ally Israel was preparing to act and amid fears that Tehran would retaliate against American forces in the region.

“We were aware that an Israeli action was imminent. We knew it would provoke an attack against American forces, and we understood that if we didn’t preemptively respond, we would face greater casualties,” Rubio told reporters.