War journal: Operation Roaring Lion

1st Mar 2026

Well, here we go again. Me and my wife were up and out early on Shabbos. On the way to shul, I clearly heard combat planes overhead, headed northeast. This was less than 24 hours after the big hint, when U.S. Ambassador to Israel Mike Huckabee told non-emergency staff and family members that those wishing to depart “should do so TODAY.” I told my wife all signs pointed to something big unfolding.

Every time I glanced out the window during Shacharis, the sky along the Ben Gurion landing path was completely empty — which only strengthened my hunch. When the IDF needs to keep things quiet, they have subtle ways of thinning out civilian air traffic without announcing anything. So when the first siren sounded around 8:00 am, I wasn't caught off guard.

Since then we've shuffled into the protected room so many times that even the kids lost track after the count went past 30. Last night I saw an interception, which is quite a sight. Once or twice fragments have fallen in town. I find it hard to believe that our town is listed on the Iranians' target bank, but after today's hit in Beit Shemesh, I think we ought to exercise an abundance of caution.

We're still hear combat planes overhead, flying fairly low upon return from their missions. Must be US Air Force planes making their way back to the USS Ford or IAF planes headed back to Ovda. (Come to think of it, the US has about a dozen of their F-22s parked at Ovda, too.) In fact, I can hear one now, as I write these lines.

The grinch who stole Purim

Of course all schools are closed today, as per Home Front directives. Hey! But what about costume day?? Last night the kids heard the dreaded recorded announcement on the phone: indeed, no class.

So yes — the grinch stole costume day. When the kids heard the robocall last night confirming no school, the disappointment was real. If the modern‑day Achashveroshes in Persia can claim any victory, it’s the dampening of Purim spirit. But like in Megillas Esther, they won’t have the last word.

For now, we’re staying alert, staying together — and in case you were wondering, yes, processing orders, too, despite shipping uncertainties. And hoping the coming days bring more clarity, and fewer sirens.