Standing Together: The Technion’s Response to War With Iran

At this painful and defining moment for Israel, the American Technion Society stands in solidarity with the Technion and with the people of Israel. Our hearts are heavy as we mourn the lives that have been lost, pray for the recovery of those who have been injured, and hold close the families and communities shattered by violence.  

Missile barrages in the Haifa area, where the Technion is located, are routine, sending hundreds of thousands into shelters multiple times a day. This reality is felt in interrupted nights, in students rushing to shelters, and in laboratories operating under emergency conditions. 

The red alert sirens over Northern Israel from just one attack are depicted on the map.

In response, the Technion acted with one guiding principle above all others: Safety, first and foremost, is non‑negotiable. “Despite these immense challenges, the Technion community continues to adapt with flexibility, creativity, and solidarity,” said Dr. Rafi Aviram, executive vice president and director general at the Technion.  

“Each dilemma has been met with thoughtful solutions rooted in our commitment to student welfare, research excellence, and institutional continuity,” he said. “Our resilience lies not in avoiding difficulty, but in facing it with determination and purpose.” 

Guided by Israel’s Home Front Command, the Technion has reduced campus activity to the essential minimum, closed learning spaces until conditions allow, restricted gatherings, and ensured rapid access to protected spaces throughout campus. Classes took place on Zoom, schedules were adjusted, and exams postponed.  

The Spring 2026 semester has been delayed until after Passover and will run for a condensed 12-week period, with course material adjusted accordingly. Emergency hotlines operate 24/7, shelters are clearly designated, and daily situational assessments by the Technion administration shape every operational decision from academics and research to dorm life and campus security.  

Yet safety alone is not enough. The Technion also recognizes the profound human toll of the war with Iran — especially on those called to serve. Students, faculty, and staff were summoned for extended reserve duty yet again, leaving behind coursework, laboratories, jobs, and families to defend the country they love.  

The campus is relatively empty these days, though 2,500 students still reside in dormitories. Their safety and well-being are a profound responsibility.

Determined that no one who answers the call would be left to struggle alone, the University mobilized a broad network of support: rent exemptions in dormitories, targeted financial assistance, flexible academic arrangements, expanded tutoring, adjusted curricula, and ongoing support for families during prolonged absences. Compassion guides policy, reaffirming that academic excellence must always be paired with humanity.  

The emotional toll of sustained conflict is profound. Anxiety, grief, and exhaustion affect students and staff alike. The Technion’s counseling center continues to operate without interruption, offering psychological support via email, WhatsApp, Zoom, and in‑person sessions when possible. Stress‑relief workshops and ongoing therapeutic care remain available, reinforcing the message that emotional resilience is as vital as physical safety. 

Beyond the campus gates, the Technion’s contributions are inseparable from Israel’s ability to endure this moment. For decades, Technion alumni have played a central role in developing the technologies that strengthen the country’s security and resilience. Iron Dome, Arrow, David’s Sling, and critical cybersecurity infrastructure all bear the imprint of Technion minds. Their work is a powerful reminder that education, research, and service are not theoretical pursuits; they save lives. 

As Technion President Prof. Uri Sivan has said, 

“This is a moment that reminds us of the unique contribution of the Technion: to develop knowledge, technology, and leaders who serve humanity — and who stand ready when history calls.”  

Now, more than ever, donor partnership matters. Support for campus security, student services, and emergency needs enables the Technion not only to endure, but to care — for its people, its mission, and its role in Israel’s future.  

Together, we mourn. Together, we stand in solidarity. And together, with resolve and compassion, we move forward. Visit ats.org/emergency.