Fact Check: Are Indians Sleeping in Subways in Israel After Being Denied Shelter?

A social media post claiming that Indians in Israel are being denied access to shelters and forced to sleep in subway stations has gone viral, sparking concerns and debate online. The claim emerged amid the ongoing tensions between Israel and Iran.

However, Israeli authorities have dismissed the claim, calling it "fake news" and clarifying that the locations shown in the viral image are officially designated safe spaces for civilians during emergencies.

Viral Post Sparks Controversy

The controversy began after a photograph circulated widely on social media showing people sleeping inside what appeared to be a subway station. The accompanying posts claimed that Indians were not being allowed into shelters in Israel and were forced to spend the night in subway stations.

The post quickly spread online, raising concerns about the safety and treatment of Indian nationals living or working in Israel.

Israel Clarifies Subway Stations Are Safe Shelters

Responding to the viral claim, Guy Nir, spokesperson for the Israeli Embassy in India, said the allegations were false.

He explained that metro stations in Israel are officially designated as safe spaces where civilians can take shelter during emergencies such as missile attacks or air raid alerts.

According to Nir, these shelters are open to everyone, including foreign nationals.
He also pointed out that the people visible in the viral image belong to different ethnic backgrounds, showing that the space was being used by many residents and not limited to a particular group.

Indians Welcome in All Emergency Shelters

The Israeli spokesperson emphasised that Indian nationals are welcome in all shelters just like citizens of other countries.

He added that many residents of Israeli cities, including Tel Aviv, often use metro stations and underground spaces as temporary shelters during times of conflict.

These locations are designed to provide protection from potential attacks and are part of the country's emergency preparedness system.

Advisory for Indians in Israel

Amid the ongoing conflict, the Embassy of India in Israel has also issued safety advisories to Indian nationals.

The embassy has urged Indians living in or visiting Israel to remain cautious and stay alert due to the current security situation.

Indian citizens have been advised to:

• Stay close to designated shelters
• Identify the nearest protected spaces near their homes or workplaces
• Follow updates and instructions issued by local authorities

Concerns Rise During Israel-Iran Conflict

The clarification comes at a time when tensions between Israel and Iran have raised safety concerns among foreign nationals in the region.

Missile strikes and security alerts have led many residents to spend time in shelters, underground stations, and other protected spaces.

During such periods, misinformation on social media can spread quickly, creating unnecessary panic among people.

Importance of Verifying Information

Authorities have urged people to verify information before sharing posts online, especially during times of conflict.

Officials say false claims can create confusion and fear, particularly for families of foreign nationals living in affected areas.

For now, both Israeli officials and the Indian Embassy have reassured that Indian nationals in Israel have access to shelters and safety facilities like other residents.