Hezbollah Allegedly Plotting to Take Control of Kiryat Shmona from Within

Controversial Claims by Minister

In a recent cabinet meeting, Israel’s Minister for the Negev and Galilee, Isaac Vasarloff, claimed that Hezbollah is attempting to gain control of Kiryat Shmona through the acquisition of apartments by Arab-Israelis. Vasarloff asserted that these purchases are part of Hezbollah’s strategy to “take over the city from within,” a statement that has sparked significant concerns and debate.

Security Concerns and Investigations

Sources indicate that the Israeli Security Agency (Shin Bet) is aware of this phenomenon and is investigating whether some apartments purchased during the ongoing conflict were bought at Hezbollah’s direction. Reports suggest that over the previous month, approximately 50 residents from the Arab community have changed their addresses to Kiryat Shmona, raising alarm among local officials.

Vasarloff’s comments stem from discussions he has held with security officials in his capacity as an observer in the political-security cabinet. He highlighted that Islamist movements seem to be making efforts to turn cities in Israel into “mixed” communities. Specifically, he pointed to a worrying trend in Eilat, where he claims several illegal mosques are being established.

The Situation on the Ground

As Kiryat Shmona grapples with the aftermath of conflict, local officials report a surge in Jewish residents’ resilience and commitment to the city. According to Kiryat Shmona Mayor Avichai Stern, Hezbollah is indeed aware of Kiryat Shmona’s strategic importance but has not succeeded in its attempts to destabilize the area.

“Certainly, Hezbollah understands the unique location and strategic importance of Kiryat Shmona, and it would be eager to undermine it from within and without. They may have attempted this, but from what I know, it has not succeeded,” Stern stated.

Urgency for Government Action

The mayor emphasized the urgent need for the Israeli government to act decisively, suggesting that Kiryat Shmona requires a specific, immediate designation for economic, community, and security reinforcement due to its strategic importance to Zionism and Israel’s national security.

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu directed Vasarloff to convene a special committee for the Negev and Galilee to outline a comprehensive recovery and development plan for the city, which has been struggling to recover since the recent conflict.

Local reports indicate that near a quarter of Kiryat Shmona’s residents have not returned since the prolonged evacuation, and about 40% of local businesses remain closed.

Conclusion

The ongoing situation in Kiryat Shmona continues to raise critical questions regarding national security, community dynamics, and the broader implications of Hezbollah’s infiltration tactics. Mayor Stern remains hopeful that the community will emerge stronger and urges immediate government intervention to secure the city’s future.

Shin Bet has not commented formally on Vasarloff’s allegations, maintaining its policy of not addressing matters discussed in confidential meetings.