In a number of weeks, northern border communities will mark seven years of relative quiet along the border since the Second Lebanon War. At a time where eyes are focused on the Golan Heights and events in Syria, residents of the Galil are watching with concern as they observe changes along the other side of the border.

Residents are referring to the area where three Israeli soldiers were kidnapped on Yom Kippur in 2000, pointing out that 100-200 meters from the border fence they can see Hizbullah flags have returned to the area. They explain the flags were not seen in the area since the Second Lebanon War. Residents of area communities explain that in line with the ceasefire agreement, United Nations peacekeepers and Lebanese Army forces are supposed to keep Hizbullah away from the border but it appears this is no longer the case.

Area residents report in the past seven years flags were visible from time to time but now the situation has changed. The flags have become a permanent entity along with tents along the border, and these realities have them concerned.

(YWN – Israel Desk, Jerusalem)