'In survival mode': Jerusalem residents hope war would bring harmony to Israel, Middle East

Some Jerusalem residents express cautious hope that the U.S.-Israel war on Iran could bring regional stability, while others support the military campaign. Tensions rise as Iran moves to appoint a new supreme leader amid ongoing missile and drone strikes.

Reuters

8 March 2026 at 13:25:25

'In survival mode': Jerusalem residents hope war would bring harmony to Israel, Middle East

A Palestinian man speaks to Israeli security during the Muslim holy fasting month of Ramadan following restrictions on gathering in large groups, amid the U.S.-Israel conflict with Iran, in Jerusalem's Old City, March 6, 2026.

Jamal Awad/Reuters

Some residents of Jerusalem said on Sunday (March 8) they were hopeful that the war the United States and Israel launched on Iran will bring a "better future" and harmony for the region.

Others said they were "proud" of the ongoing military operations and looked forward to the toppling of the Iranian government.

U.S. President Donald Trump said his war with Iran may only end with its military and rulers wiped out, as Tehran moved on Sunday towards picking a new supreme leader while missiles and drones flew across the Middle East. Iran's President Masoud Pezeshkian dismissed Trump's earlier demand for the Islamic Republic's unconditional surrender as "a dream", but said its temporary leadership council had agreed to suspend attacks on nearby states unless strikes on Iran originated from their territory.

-Production: Dedi Hayun, Juarawee Kittisilpa/Reuters