Israeli Man Opens Burger Joint Near Lebanon Border Amid War, Calls It Patriotic Move

Kiryat Shmona, Israel – Yehezkel Schweiger opened a new burger joint in the midst of war near Hezbollah militants in Lebanon. He views it as patriotic and aims to provide community members with a place to relax from ongoing tensions.

The area has been under constant threat since Iran’s conflict with the U.S. began in February. Bomb shelters are frequently used, even on heavily fortified military outposts, due to the short time needed for sheltering during air raid sirens.

Schweiger, who has two young sons and a baby girl on the way, acknowledges the risks but remains undeterred. He appreciates his surroundings, including rivers and eucalyptus trees.

Kvishtish, a spinoff of Schweiger’s larger restaurant Kvish 90 further south in Israel, is bustling even during off-peak hours. It offers a bar for casual dining, a car for children to play in, and colorful neon signs.

Despite the construction being completed under fire, Schweiger sees Kvishtish as a sanctuary. He hires staff who are happy to work, creating a positive atmosphere that extends to customers.

During an attack on Beirut’s southern suburbs by Israeli forces, which Iran claimed crossed a red line, Schweiger explained his restaurant’s resilience. One customer questioned if he was worried about the situation; he responded that it is his job and she replied that she lives there.

Schweiger believes opening Kvishtish is both a statement of defiance and a commitment to staying in Israel. He emphasizes that this is their home, and they do not intend to leave.