Northern Israeli Residents Anxious Amid Escalating Tensions with Lebanon

In the coastal town of Nahariya, Daniel Bussidan, a 26-year-old pastry shop worker, is still reeling from a recent tragedy. His friend’s father was fatally struck by a rocket while working on his farm, an event that has left the town, located closest to Lebanon, in a state of heightened alert.

Bussidan, speaking on Nahariya’s eucalyptus-fringed main thoroughfare, expressed his fear following the attack.

Typically, Nahariya is a bustling seaside destination, drawing visitors with its appealing weather and surfing opportunities. However, for the past two months, the residents have been living under the shadow of almost daily fire exchanges between the Israeli army and Hezbollah, the Iran-supported Lebanese group. Hezbollah declared its involvement in the conflict to support Hamas starting from October 8, following Hamas’ major assault on southern Israel the day before.

In northern Israel, particularly in towns like Nahariya, there’s a growing apprehension of an escalating conflict along the Lebanese border, visible from a hill nearby.

According to an AFP count, over 120 people have died on the Lebanese side of the border since October 7, primarily Hezbollah combatants and a number of civilians. Israel has reported the deaths of six soldiers and four civilians in the region, with Lebanon experiencing its first military fatality in the conflict this past Tuesday.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has issued a stern warning to Hezbollah, suggesting that any escalation could result in severe consequences similar to those seen in Gaza and Khan Younis.

In Nahariya, the situation has impacted local business, with a notable increase in armed individuals. Resident Nathalie Betito, 44, and her husband Arie, 47, who moved from France five years ago, express concerns about potential Hezbollah infiltration. Despite the tensions, they recently celebrated Hanukkah at the town’s central synagogue.

Arie, now assisting newcomers at the town hall, acknowledged the danger, pointing out the numerous missiles Hezbollah reportedly has aimed at Israel. He emphasized the high cost of a full-scale war, which he believes neither side desires.

Efi Dayan, 60, a resident of Nahariya, is bracing for conflict, preparing essentials like food and clothing. He believes war is inevitable.

Bussidan, a former soldier, stresses the need to first resolve the military situation in Gaza, emphasizing the importance of protecting civilians on both sides.