After long weeks of fighting with Iran and Lebanon, it had been unclear how, or even if, Israelis would be able to mark this year’s Independence Day. But with the conflicts now paused by fragile ceasefires, Tel Avivians poured outdoors on Wednesday to celebrate in familiar fashion: with barbecues, beaches and beer.

Walking through the city, it was almost hard to believe that just two weeks ago, the city had been under relentless Iranian missile fire.

With Independence Day a national holiday, the usual weekday rush gave way to something softer. Not quite normal, but close enough to feel like relief.

Most storefronts were shuttered for the holiday, but the streets were anything but empty. Families cycled past on quiet roads. Children darted between sidewalks and parks. Groups lingered in the sun, with nowhere urgent to be.

The colors of blue and white were everywhere, as some people subtly incorporated the national tones into their outfits, while others wore festive headpieces or draped flags over their shoulders. Flags also fluttered from balconies and storefronts, strung alongside paper streamers that caught the spring breeze.

Outside cafes, many young people nursed coffees, shaking off the remnants of a long night of celebration.

One, Leeor, who had attended a concert featuring artists Netta........

© The Times of Israel