The town of Metulla, located in the Upper Galilee region of Israel, has recently been transformed into a closed military zone due to escalating tensions and missile threats from Hezbollah. The Israeli government made this decision following the Al-Aqsa Flood Battle, which began on October 7, 2023, when the Palestinian resistance launched an attack against Israeli settlements in Gaza. Metulla's strategic position, bordering Lebanon, has made it a target for missile strikes, prompting the evacuation of its residents and the establishment of military barracks in the area.
Historically, Metulla has been a site of conflict, with its roots tracing back to the Ottoman Empire when it was a Druze village. Over the years, it has seen significant demographic changes and military confrontations, especially during the 1982 Israeli invasion of Lebanon and the 2006 Lebanon War. The settlement, which boasts a population of around 1,500, is primarily Jewish and has developed into a tourist destination known for its natural beauty and agricultural production.
As tensions rise, the infrastructure of Metulla has suffered considerable damage from ongoing missile attacks, with reports indicating that approximately 40% of residential homes have been impacted since the onset of the current conflict. The local economy, largely dependent on agriculture and tourism, is facing severe challenges as military actions disrupt normal life and threaten the safety of its remaining residents.
- Metulla's geographical significance is underscored by its location at the northernmost point of occupied Palestine, surrounded by Lebanese territory on three sides. This strategic positioning has historically made it a focal point for military engagements between Israeli forces and Lebanese resistance factions. The town's climate is characterized by a Mediterranean pattern, with cold, humid winters and warm, dry summers, which contributes to its agricultural viability.
- The transformation of Metulla into a military zone reflects broader geopolitical tensions in the region, particularly the ongoing conflict between Israel and various Palestinian factions, as well as Hezbollah's increasing military capabilities. The Israeli government has taken proactive measures to ensure the safety of its citizens, including the construction of a separation wall and the establishment of military operations aimed at neutralizing threats from across the border.
- Tourism, once a thriving sector in Metulla, is now facing an uncertain future as security concerns deter visitors. The settlement is known for attractions such as the Hekar House Museum, Zami Music Box Museum, and the Canada Center, which features Israel's largest ice skating rink. However, with the current military situation, the local economy is at risk, and residents are left grappling with the impacts of conflict on their livelihoods.
