Israelis enjoy fun in the sun as ceasefire with Iran, Lebanon holds

Tel Aviv residents soaked up some sun along the city’s iconic beaches on Israel’s Independence Day on Wednesday (April 22), a reprieve from weeks of conflict, as a ceasefire with Iran and Lebanon continued to hold.

The familiar hum of sirens signalling incoming missile and drone attacks was replaced with electronic dance music as revellers observed the national holiday. 

The traditional flyover by Israel Defense Forces (IDF) fighter jets and a naval parade was cancelled for a third consecutive year due to the ongoing war.

Nevertheless, local residents like Asif, who would only give his first name, were enjoying what he described as an “old normal.”

“I think it’s kind of a back to reality that we’re not supposed to be at homes anymore and go outside and see our friends and go to the beach in such beautiful weather, especially in this day, Independence Day, so basically it’s back to reality. I really hope it will stay for a long time,” said the 33-year-old.

U.S. President Donald Trump said on Tuesday (April 21) he would indefinitely extend the ceasefire with Iran to allow for further peace talks, although it was not clear on Wednesday if Iran or Israel, the U.S. ally in the two-month war, would agree.

Production: Joseph Campbell/Reuters