West Bank Lockdown: What We Know About the Hebron Shooting and Israel’s Security Crackdown

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Friday ordered a full lockdown of the occupied West Bank after a shooting near Hebron killed two Israeli soldiers and wounded three others. His order came as Israeli forces killed two people accused of carrying out the attack, raising fears of a wider military operation in the territory.

According to Netanyahu’s office, the military had been instructed to close Hebron and prepare for an extensive shutdown across the West Bank. However, officials did not share how the restrictions would work or how long they would last.

The move comes days before a crucial Israeli election, with security a major issue in Netanyahu’s campaign. The shooting also adds to growing tensions in the West Bank, where Israeli military raids and settler attacks have increased in recent months.

About the Incident: Israeli Soldiers Killed in Shooting Near Hebron

Israel’s emergency service, Magen David Adom, said it received a report of multiple casualties near Yehuda Junction, close to Hebron, at around 7:15 am local time on Friday.

First responders treated at least five people. Two were initially reported to be in critical condition. The Israeli military later confirmed that two soldiers had died and three others had suffered light injuries and were taken to hospital.

The military said the alleged attackers had an M16 rifle and a handgun. Israeli forces killed two people whom they believe were involved in the shooting. However, initial reports did not immediately identify them.

After an emergency meeting with security officials, Netanyahu blamed Hamas for the attack. He said the group was “planning a major attack aimed at murdering innocent civilians.” He also talked about the discovery of what he described as large quantities of weapons and ammunition but did not share comprehensive details.

Israeli Officials Threaten Wider Military Action

Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz hinted at a major response in Hebron. He said neighborhoods linked to the alleged attackers would face evacuation and military operations.

Katz said, “Every clan neighborhood in Hebron from which the terrorists emerged today will be evacuated of its residents, and the terror infrastructure in the neighborhood will be addressed and dismantled.”

He added, “This is the only language that jihadist terrorism understands. Just like in Gaza, just like in Lebanon.”

Meanwhile, Far-right National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir called for the Palestinian Authority, which governs parts of the West Bank, to be dismantled. Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich also called for a broad military campaign to remove weapons and target militants.

West Bank Tensions Rise Ahead of Israeli Election

The lockdown comes as Netanyahu faces voters on his leadership following the Hamas-led October 7, 2023, attacks. His campaign has put a strong spotlight on security.

Settler violence in the West Bank has also risen during the annual olive harvest. Palestinians, activists and foreign nationals have reported attacks and detentions while helping farmers gather olives.

The United Nations recorded at least 160 settler attacks linked to the harvest during the first two weeks of October. Many took place “under the protection of, or with the participation of, Israeli forces.”