Netanyahu Visits Popular Kebab Restaurant in Hadera Amid Tight Security

Ahead of upcoming elections, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu visited Shifudi Olga, a well-known kebab restaurant in the Givat Olga neighborhood of Hadera, a stronghold of the Likud party. Netanyahu arrived with a large entourage including the mayor of Hadera and local activists. The restaurant owner, Simo Shtivi, described the visit as highly emotional, noting it was Netanyahu's fifth time dining there, following visits by former leaders Yitzhak Rabin and Ariel Sharon. Security measures were extensive, with dozens of guards stationed around the restaurant, including on the roof, and internet and phone services were temporarily disabled. Customers paid in cash due to the communication blackout.

The heavy security extended into the kitchen, where guards locked the freezer and closely monitored food preparation. Netanyahu’s meal included a platter of entrecôte steak, baby lamb ribs, foie gras, sweetbreads, and filet, reflecting the owner's familiarity with his preferences. Nearby tables were cleared, and only about 30 diners were allowed inside after security checks and receiving pink wristbands. Netanyahu engaged warmly with guests, including parents of soldiers and the owner's eight-year-old grandson, who had dressed as Netanyahu for Purim.

Shifudi Olga, established over 40 years ago by the Shtivi family who immigrated from Tripoli in 1949, is renowned for its charcoal-grilled meats and less common cuts like liver and sweetbreads. The restaurant maintains a nostalgic, popular atmosphere and is a pilgrimage site for meat lovers. Owner Shtivi emphasized his respect for all patrons, from Netanyahu to soldiers and those less fortunate, highlighting the emotional significance of the visit for everyone involved.