TEL AVIV / JERUSALEM, March 3, 2026 (WNP): Hundreds of Israeli citizens have begun leaving the country amid a sharp escalation in violence, with repeated Iranian ballistic missile and drone strikes forcing families to seek safety across borders into Jordan, Egypt and Syria.

The movement reflects growing alarm among civilians as unprecedented attacks continue to disrupt daily life and prompt emergency measures.

Since late February, Tehran has launched sustained waves of missiles and unmanned aerial vehicles at Israeli territory in retaliation for a joint U.S.–Israeli military offensive on Iranian targets, prompting Israel to declare a state of emergency, shut schools and ban public gatherings. In response, thousands of reservists have been called up and strict security protocols implemented.

Although Israel’s advanced air-defence systems have intercepted a majority of incoming threats, the barrage has rattled public confidence and heightened fear among civilians — particularly in urban centres such as Tel Aviv and Jerusalem — where sirens have become routine amid the exchange of fire.

Faced with persistent alerts and the risk of falling debris, many Israelis have opted to leave the country temporarily.

Those departing have cited concerns over personal safety and the well-being of their families as the conflict shows no clear signs of abating. Some have crossed into neighbouring states via land routes, using open border crossings into Jordan — where authorities have reported an influx of refugees — as well as into Egypt and, in some cases, into Syrian border regions where civilians seek shelter.

Humanitarian organisations and international agencies are closely monitoring the situation, warning that continued displacement could strain resources in host countries and create broader regional instability if the conflict further intensifies.

Israeli officials have urged citizens to remain vigilant and follow civil-defence guidance, while diplomatic efforts to halt the escalation are underway amid mounting global concern over the widening crisis.