Residents of Sderot Debate Support for Netanyahu Amid Security Concerns

A heated debate erupted on social media platform X (formerly Twitter) regarding whether residents of the southern Israeli city of Sderot continue to support Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. The discussion began after a post called on Sderot residents to join Gadi Eizenkot's campaign headquarters in the city. Sderot native and singer Haim Uliel noted that most people who left Sderot years ago oppose Netanyahu, while current residents tend to support him.

Kobi Oz, also born in Sderot but now living in Tel Aviv, responded by emphasizing that even those who left still care about the city and remain engaged. Oz, who was mentored by Uliel in the band "Sfatayim," expressed frustration with Netanyahu's governments, citing repeated security failures despite flashy military operations. He argued that under Netanyahu, southern development towns initially flourished but ultimately suffered in many ways, and called for new leadership more connected to the people.

Oz criticized Netanyahu for not personally comforting families affected by attacks and accused him of enabling Palestinian Authority leader Mahmoud Abbas and treating Hamas as an asset. He highlighted reports showing a decrease in incendiary balloons and explosives during the recent change government, contrasting with Netanyahu's tenure, which he said repeatedly promised deterrence that never materialized.

In response, the Shas party condemned Oz's remarks as arrogant and disconnected. Oz concluded by lamenting the ongoing threat from Hamas, noting that despite Netanyahu's decades of "gifts" that backfired, some still believe the current conflict is truly over. He expressed admiration for Sderot residents and respect for Uliel despite their political differences, but questioned the timing of renewed faith in Netanyahu amid persistent security challenges.

This debate reflects broader tensions in Israeli society over leadership and security policy, especially in frontline communities like Sderot that face frequent attacks from Gaza. The discussion underscores the complex political landscape ahead of upcoming elections and the deep divisions over Netanyahu's legacy and future.