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MembersLove in the bomb shelter

Tel Aviv underground community finds resilience beneath the Dizengoff Center.

The level -4 parking lot in Tel Aviv’s Dizengoff Center shopping mall on the evening of March 17, 2026. Photo by Amelie Botbol.
The level -4 parking lot in Tel Aviv’s Dizengoff Center shopping mall on the evening of March 17, 2026. Photo by Amelie Botbol.

(JNS) As one enters the iconic Dizengoff Center shopping mall in Tel Aviv, it is hard to imagine that deep below, on parking level minus four, a city of its own has taken root.

Three weeks into the war with Iran, Israelis in Tel Aviv have grown weary of repeatedly moving between their apartments and building shelters—or, for some, public protected spaces several streets away.

On level minus four, tents have been erected and shared spaces assembled from garden chairs, colorful blankets and children’s drawings. The background noise of children playing and dogs barking is covered by music. The area appears clean, neighbors in makeshift quarters of this improvised underground city are respectful and helpful despite the difficult circumstances.

Most of all, families can sleep through the night without having to rush for cover.

On Tuesday evening, a singles event titled “Love in the Bomb Shelter” is taking place at the heart of the parking lot, featuring drinks, costumes and activities led by Israeli comedian Jonny Hishgozim. The aim is to bring people together amid an otherwise isolating...

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