Arriving in Tel Aviv after 12 days of war with Iran, Dorit Tzarum says among drinks on a crowded beach in the Israeli city that "it feels like California".

The devout Orthodox woman hasn't left her apartment in Jerusalem throughout the missile fire, scrupulously respecting the restrictions imposed by the Israeli government.

Travelling the 70 kilometres (43 miles) to Tel Aviv, she sits with her adult son Yair on a bench to watch the waves after the announcement of a ceasefire between Israel and Iran after 12 days of exchanging strikes.

"We're very happy tonight. We succeeded, we destroyed the Iranian nuclear threat with the help of (US President) Donald Trump," said Yair, a restaurant chef at the coastal city, renowned for its partying, fashion and music.

"Life can go on."

On Wednesday, schools, offices and transport will reopen after the lifting of restrictions.

"I'm not religious but I pray that I........

© Al Monitor