Before Israeli election, signs of fraying loyalty emerge inside Netanyahu’s longtime stronghold
A stronghold under strain
Kiryat Shmona has traditionally backed right-wing parties, especially Likud. In the 2021 and 2022 elections, about half of the city’s voters chose Likud, compared with a quarter of voters nationwide, according to the Central Elections Committee.
The city, Israel’s northernmost, was evacuated for more than a year after Hezbollah began firing across the border following Hamas’ Oct. 7, 2023, attack. Although attacks have mostly subsided, streets and commercial areas remain quiet, with some shops closed and others lacking customers.
Security promises questioned
Netanyahu has led bombing campaigns in Lebanon and sent Israeli forces into the country twice since 2023, pledging to stop Hezbollah’s attacks. More than 4,000 Lebanese have been killed, and Israeli troops have occupied part of southern Lebanon, leveling towns and displacing an estimated 1 million people.
Hezbollah remains active. Its missiles began hitting Israel again in March after Israel and the United States launched a war on Iran, and Israel’s occupation of southern Lebanon has reduced but not ended the fire. Some Kiryat Shmona residents want a tougher response; others say Netanyahu has failed to deliver security.
Residents weigh their choices
Eti Ben Shabat, 64, said she had usually voted for Likud because her family did, but that changed in recent years. She cited Netanyahu’s unfulfilled promises to secure the north and dismantle Hezbollah.
Retired Likud city councilor Sami Malul defended the government’s handling of the evacuation, saying it put residents’ safety first. Maimon Amsalem said residents still love Netanyahu but want him to address their needs and protect their security.
A close election calculation
Nissan Zeevi, a longtime Likud voter from a nearby town, is running for parliament with the opposition Beyachad party. He founded Lobby 1701, which campaigns for improved northern security, and says the region has endured a war that has not ended.
Kiryat Shmona says nearly 80% of its 22,000 residents have returned, while locals estimate the share at closer to 50%. A small decline in Likud support could affect the close election: it might help Gadi Eisenkot, who seeks to replace Netanyahu, or strengthen far-right parties likely to support Netanyahu in a coalition.
Key points
- Kiryat Shmona has long been a stronghold for Likud, but some residents are questioning Netanyahu’s security record.
- The city was evacuated for more than a year during the conflict with Hezbollah and remains economically subdued.
- Residents differ over whether Israel should intensify its response or whether Netanyahu has neglected the north.
- A small shift in traditional strongholds could influence the close election and the balance of a future coalition.