The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) and the local council of Metula have announced a temporary suspension of residents' entry into the settlement until Monday, citing safety considerations following recent rocket fire from Hezbollah operatives.
In a statement addressed to residents, officials said: "Dear residents, we would like to inform you that starting tomorrow morning, entry to Metula will not be allowed until Sunday inclusive. Further IDF guidelines regarding entry procedures to the settlement will be issued thereafter. Shabbat Shalom."
According to reports from Israel Hayom, security officials clarified that no formal military closure order had been issued by the Northern Command Chief for Metula. However, IDF authorities are evaluating the potential gathering of residents in the area, prompting them to advise the local council to restrict entry. This measure has raised legal concerns, as current regulations stipulate that entry cannot be denied without a specific security incident or a formal declaration of a closed military zone.
Srugim reported that this announcement has sparked discontent among local farmers, who rely on access to Metula for their livelihoods. Under established protocols, farmers who are barred entry due to a military closure order typically receive compensation for their economic losses.