On Lebanese border, a village still in Hezbollah crosshairs prepares for comeback

The Israeli government has launched an NIS 18 billion campaign to revitalize 28 frontline communities near the Lebanese border, including Shtula, despite ongoing security concerns from Hezbollah. This initiative, called Tnufa LeTsafon (Northern Momentum), aims to double or triple Shtula's population by accelerating construction, improving infrastructure, and offering 15 trial rental "caravillas" with rocket-proof rooms. Shtula, a village that saw 64% of its buildings damaged and residents evacuated after October 7, 2023, is slowly rebuilding, with 12 new families having moved in and about 60% of its original 300 residents returned. Community manager Sharon Hen stated, "We have a big task ahead of us to rebuild Shtula… In Shtula now, there are exactly 197 people." Residents acknowledge the challenges of living in a remote area with uncertain security, but express a strong commitment to their home, with one resident noting, "It’s not just our home, it’s our country’s home."