Approximately one third of students have not registered for the upcoming school year in Kiryat Shmona, according to Mayor Avichai Stern, who warned that ongoing instability in northern Israel is driving families away. Of the city's roughly 26,000 prewar residents, he estimated that only about 10,000 have returned, leaving around 1,000 students missing from next year's education system.

Stern said many parents are reluctant to send their children to school amid continued security threats and repeated disruptions. After years marked by the coronavirus pandemic, evacuations during the war, and extended periods in shelters, families are increasingly unwilling to endure another year of uncertainty while much of the country studies as usual.

His remarks came as drone and explosive drone attacks from Lebanon triggered alerts across northern communities, causing damage and fires in several areas. In response, local authorities imposed new restrictions on schools near the border, including shifts to distance learning and limits on transportation.

City officials cautioned that intensified military activity could further affect classes, urging residents to follow official safety guidance. Stern warned that many residents believe the current security reality may persist, raising fears of another round of fighting.