Migrant workers from Telangana living in Israel are experiencing heightened anxiety amid the latest conflict involving Iran, describing the situation as more tense than previous escalations. While they have previously taken shelter during missile alerts, residents say the current atmosphere feels more serious, with ballistic missile threats increasing fear among families.

Around 7,000 people from the Telugu states reside in Israel, including about 2,000 from Telangana, many of whom work as caregivers and construction labourers. A significant number are employed under a bilateral agreement signed in 2022 to address labour shortages. Most live in and around Tel Aviv, with smaller groups in other cities, and earn between 6,000 and 6,500 shekels per month.

Residents report that essential services such as supermarkets and pharmacies remain open, but schools, offices and shopping centres are closed. Public gatherings are restricted, and people rush to bunkers when sirens sound after missile alerts. Many say repeatedly moving to shelters is especially difficult for children, elderly people and pregnant women.

Several Telangana natives said they are staying indoors except for essential needs and remain in touch with the Indian embassy for guidance. With airspace temporarily shut and movement limited, uncertainty continues to weigh heavily on the community.