My name is Inon, and I'm an 11th grade student in Tel Aviv. I live and study with my friend Yanai. The events of October 7th and its aftermath have deeply affected my life, not only as a resident of Tel Aviv but also as the brother of a soldier serving in the IDF. Like many others, I woke up on October 7th to shocking news. As the day unfolded, the magnitude of the attack became clear, and a sense of disbelief and horror settled over our home. My family was particularly on edge because my brother is in the army. The uncertainty of his situation and the potential for wider conflict filled us with worry.
In the days that followed, Tel Aviv, usually so vibrant, became eerily quiet. The constant threat of rocket attacks has made everyday activities feel dangerous. Every siren sends us scrambling for shelter, and the sound of explosions in the distance is a chilling reminder of our new reality.
School has been disrupted, switching between in-person and remote learning. It's hard to focus on studies when my thoughts are constantly with my brother and the ongoing conflict. The emotional toll of worrying about him, while also trying to maintain some normalcy in my own life, is immense. The streets don't feel safe anymore. There's a constant underlying fear that violence could erupt at any moment, even in the heart of Tel Aviv. This new anxiety is something I'm still learning to navigate.
Months after the initial attack, life hasn't returned to normal. The ongoing military operations, the hostages still in captivity, and the general sense of unease continue to affect daily life. My brother's service in the army brings the reality of the conflict even closer to home, making each day a mix of pride in his service and fear for his safety.
Despite the challenges, I try to stay hopeful. I cherish the support of friends like Yanai, who understand what I'm going through. Together, we're trying to cope with this new reality while holding onto hope for a more peaceful future.
