Israel's Northern Communities Coping with Fear and Uncertainty Amidst War Conditions

Hospitals, schools and public offices in northern Israel are operating under emergency conditions this week, with hundreds of non-critical medical procedures, classes and other routine business cancelled or at least indefinitely postponed. These circumstances are a direct result of the increased rate of rocket fire from Hezbollah in the last few days and Israel's punishing response.

Simon Hadi, an Arab resident of a northern Galilee village told the Times of Israel news portal that “Of course, we’re all afraid. Hezbollah doesn’t care who it hits.”

The IDF Home Front Command has also ordered the closure of hundreds of schools, just a few weeks after the new year began on 1 September. This is requiring parents to take time off from work to be home with their children, but many workplaces have also been temporarily shuttered, and many workers have been temporarily furloughed.

“This has been our life for the past 11 months,” said Tova Shababo, a resident of Safed. In her city, she continued, “stores are empty, there’s no tourism, no business, and no events. Most people live in stress and worry. My blood pressure goes up every time I hear a siren.”

She added that she didn't think this war will end "until residents can return to their homes in the north." She concluded by declaring that Hezbollah “can’t do what they want. We need to stop them now and forever.”