Rosalind Evans
In Israel’s northern city of Nahariya, anxiety is palpable as residents face the escalating threat of war with Hezbollah. This coastal city of 77,000 people is just 6 miles from the Lebanon border, where ongoing exchanges of fire between the Israeli army and Hezbollah fighters have intensified over the past 10 months. Unlike many border communities that have become deserted, Nahariya remains inhabited, though its atmosphere is far from normal.
A City on Edge: Life Amidst Conflict
A persistent sense of unease marks the daily lives of Nahariya’s residents. “We feel it. We see it in the streets; we see fewer people,” said Tommy Lowenstein, 67. Streets are quieter, and the usual bustle of life contrasts sharply with the vibrant atmosphere of Tel Aviv, 80 miles away. The city’s official declared a state of emergency, with residents frequently hearing artillery fire and rockets landing nearby.
Escalation and Impact: A Day of Attack
Recent events have exacerbated the situation. On Tuesday, an Israeli interceptor missile malfunctioned during a Hezbollah drone attack, leading to injuries on Route 4 near Nahariya. The conflict’s intensity spiked after the assassination of Hezbollah’s top military commander, Fu’ad Shukr, on July 30. The subsequent death of former Palestinian prime minister Ismail Haniyeh in Tehran has raised fears of further retaliatory strikes, potentially involving Hezbollah independently of Iran.
Daily Struggles: Emotional Toll on Families
For many residents like Liz Levy, 40, the war takes a severe emotional toll. “Two days ago, I had a panic attack,” she shared. The constant sirens and fear of rocket attacks are distressing, especially for children. Levy’s daughter, aged 7, also suffers from panic attacks triggered by the sirens, reflecting the broader mental health impact on families living in the conflict zone.
The Frontline Reality: Preparing for the Worst
As the conflict nears, Nahariya’s municipal response includes adding over 40 new shelters and extensive training for emergency workers. Despite these efforts, officials acknowledge the difficulty of evacuation. “There is nowhere to go,” said a municipal official, noting that as Hezbollah’s threats expand towards cities like Haifa and Tel Aviv, options for relocation are limited. The official highlighted the challenge of moving such a large population, particularly when potential targets extend further south.
Looking Ahead: The Uncertain Future
Nahariya’s residents continue to grapple with the immediate threat and uncertain future as Hezbollah’s aggressive stance brings the conflict ever closer. With the city firmly on the frontline, the hope is for peace and stability, but the immediate reality remains fraught with tension and fear.
