Deserted Streets in Northern Israel: More Foxes Than Cars

tel aviv - Residents remain cautious to return despite ceasefire in place, impacting both human and animal life in the area.

Residents are hesitant to return to the once busy 899 road, even with a recent ceasefire in place. The road used to be bustling with activity, especially on weekends, as Israelis from all over the country flocked to the north to spend a night in what is known as a 'zimmer' in Israel - a vacation cottage usually located in someone's backyard. These zimmers now sit empty, likely to remain so for the foreseeable future.

Shay, visiting Shlomi briefly to check on his home, questions the viability of the ceasefire. He enjoys the tranquility but doubts the longevity of the peace. He even harbors a wish for a resumption of hostilities, advocating for the Israeli army to establish a buffer zone on the Lebanese side of the border for the safety of the residents.

The responsibility for monitoring ceasefire compliance falls on the Lebanese army and the existing UN force. Despite similar post-war responsibilities given in 2006, Hezbollah managed to fortify itself with heavy weapons near the border. However, a recent agreement between Israel and the US allows military action in cases of imminent danger.

Recent incidents have raised concerns among Israeli security officials, estimating a 50% chance of a near-future resurgence of conflict. Evacuees are advised against returning to their homes in the border region, leaving about 60,000 Israelis displaced for over a year due to Hezbollah's attacks.

While Shlomi shows signs of life, with the local bank reopening, neighboring Hanita remains eerily calm, offering free rein to cats wandering the deserted streets without the distraction of cars. Only an elderly couple, accompanied by their grandchild, visit briefly to collect some belongings, optimistic about the supposed end of the war.

The prevailing sentiment among Israelis suggests skepticism towards a lasting peace even if the current ceasefire holds. Significant investments will be necessary for the northern region's recovery, exemplified by the desolate Zari’t village where cows freely roam the streets amidst abandonment.

In areas like Nahariya, located about 10 kilometers from Lebanon, a sense of relief prevails following months of rocket attacks. A father watches his child play in a playground, expressing a long-awaited moment of tranquility and determination to reclaim a sense of normalcy.