In a remarkable initiative organized by ELNET, 23 ambassadors and diplomats from Europe, South America and Asia took part in the first strategic tour to Northern Israel since October 7th on 11 July 2024. This tour, in cooperation with MK Yuli Edelstein, Chair of the Foreign Affairs and Defense Committee, provided an eye-opening experience to the attendees as they spoke to senior IDF officials, city representatives and residents, highlighting both the serious challenges and resilience faced by the region.
The diplomats began their journey with a visit to Kiryat Shmona, a northern Israeli city only two kilometers from the border to Lebanon. Following the relentless shelling by Hezbollah towards Kiryat Shmona since October 8th, 80% of its 23,000 residents had to be evacuated in the first two weeks of the war. Ariel Frisch, Deputy Head of Security, provided a briefing at the municipality, offering insights into the security situation for those refusing evacuation and for the soldiers fighting at the border. As the group toured the city, the visible destruction and impact of the war were stark reminders of the volatile security landscape in Northern Israel.
From Kiryat Shmona, the diplomats proceeded to the historic city of Safed. Here, they met with the mayor and received a detailed briefing at the Northern Command headquarters of the IDF. Brig.-Gen. (res.) Alon Friedman, elaborated on the current situation, the multifaceted challenges faced by the IDF and the strategic options available to Israel. His insights provided the group with a deeper understanding of the complexities and pressures faced by the IDF in safeguarding the northern frontiers of Israel.
Following the two visits to northern cities in Israel, the group of diplomats was also taken to a strategic viewpoint at the Northern border with Lebanon. This location offered a tangible sense of the proximity to potential threats and underscored the importance of vigilant defense measures.
This strategic tour not only highlighted the ongoing security challenges but also showcased the resilience and determination of Northern Israel’s communities. The first-hand experiences and briefings received by the diplomats are crucial for fostering a nuanced understanding of the region’s dynamics and the steadfast spirit of its people.
Watch the highlight video with remarks by MK Yuli Edelstein below:
Watch the news report by Israeli TV Channel N12 on the tour: