Right-Wing Voters in Sderot Voice Disappointment in Netanyahu Ahead of Elections

Nearly three years after the October 7 attacks, a visit to Sderot reveals continued loyalty to the right-wing bloc traditionally dominant in the city, but also significant criticism of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and uncertainty among some residents about their voting choices. The city, deeply affected by the events of October 7, shows visible signs of remembrance, including a memorial garden and a wall honoring fallen soldiers.

Yuval Strulovitch, a right-wing resident, expresses deep disappointment with Netanyahu, citing failures to act on warnings before the attacks. Despite this, her connection to the land and family keeps her in Sderot, even as she contemplates offers to move abroad. She voices distrust toward all political sides, stating, "I no longer trust anyone, neither right nor left."

Idan Ben David, another local, identifies as a liberal capitalist but strongly opposes the presence of Palestinians in the West Bank and Gaza, advocating for their relocation to neighboring countries. He criticizes Netanyahu’s handling of the crisis, accusing him of underestimating the severity of the October 7 events and turning Israel into a "protectorate." Ben David calls for more decisive military action and blames the failure to engage regional neighbors for the ongoing conflict.

Both residents reflect a broader sentiment in Sderot of frustration and brokenness, with hopes that the right-wing bloc will regain strength in upcoming elections. Ben David insists Netanyahu must step down, comparing his leadership to a CEO who would have been fired long ago. The community remains wary but determined to recover from the trauma of the attacks and the political fallout that followed.