In Netanyahu stronghold, signs of fraying loyalty emerge on eve of election

Kiryat Shmona, an Israeli city known for its staunch support of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's Likud party, now shows signs of waning loyalty ahead of the upcoming election. The city, once a bustling commercial hub, was temporarily evacuated three years ago due to rocket attacks from Lebanon, and even though the attacks have largely ceased, the town still feels half-empty.

Some residents are expressing frustration with Netanyahu's handling of the ongoing war against Hezbollah, which has resulted in over 4,000 Lebanese deaths and the displacement of an estimated 1 million people. Former Likud city councilor Sami Malul, 72, notes that Kiryat Shmona is traditionally a right-wing stronghold, with around 50% of voters choosing Likud in the last elections.

However, the war has eroded trust in Netanyahu, with some residents feeling that he is abandoning the north. This disillusionment could potentially impact Netanyahu's chances in the upcoming election, where he may face competition from opposition parties like Beyachad.