Residents of the Gaza Strip have been sharing harrowing images depicting the aftermath of destruction in Israeli cities, following Iranian missile strikes that occurred early on Monday morning.

The attacks targeted locations such as Tel Aviv and Haifa, resulting in at least eight fatalities.

This marks a significant escalation in the ongoing conflict, as Iran launched the missiles in retaliation for Israeli military operations aimed at its nuclear and ballistic missile programs.

Local residents expressed a range of emotions.

Mohammed Jamal, 27, from Gaza City, noted the unexpected nature of Iran's response.

He described his feelings while witnessing the missile strikes: "Watching rockets fall without the stupid Iron Dome being able to stop them is a joy, and seeing buildings collapsing and fires everywhere reminds me of the destruction the occupation brought on Gaza, yet I can’t even begin to compare."

The Iron Dome is an integral part of Israel’s advanced missile defense system, designed to intercept short-range rockets and mortars launched primarily from Gaza.

Tahrir, a 34-year-old mother of four whose home was destroyed in the Shejaia suburb during the early months of the war in 2023, shared her view that Israeli citizens might now better understand the fear and displacement faced by Gazans.

"Finally, many Israelis felt what we have felt for 20 months, fear, loss of faith, and displacement," she stated.

She expressed hope that the situation could lead to a change in Israeli government policy regarding the ongoing war in Gaza.

As Israel continues its military operation, officials have indicated that it could extend for several weeks, raising concerns about a potential broader conflict involving regional powers.

Amr Salah, 29, commented on the complexity of views towards Iran, stating, "I was never a fan of Iran, but seeing them retaliate for real, not a play like in previous times, made me happy, despite all the sadness around me."

The conflict, which began roughly 20 months ago, has resulted in significant casualties, with estimates from Gaza health authorities indicating nearly 55,000 Palestinian deaths, predominantly among civilians.

The destruction in Gaza has left much of the territory in ruins, with over two million residents facing widespread displacement and rising levels of malnutrition.

The retaliatory strikes by Iran were met with praise from various Palestinian factions, who released statements highlighting a sense of pride and dignity in the face of the ongoing crisis.

A statement from the so-called “Factions of Resistance” emphasized that these events disrupt what they view as Israeli dominance.

The conflict continues to have profound humanitarian implications, as the plight of civilians remains a focal point amidst the ongoing hostilities.