800,000 Sealed in Hebron After Two Soldiers Killed

Approximately 800,000 people in Hebron governorate are currently sealed inside the territory following a full lockdown ordered by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. The closure began after two Israeli soldiers were killed in an ambush at a military reserve base in Hebron on Friday.

Yousef al-Ja'bari, the mayor of Hebron, stated that 2,200 residents have been forced from their homes since the attack. He reported that hundreds of Israeli raids have occurred since Friday, with evacuation orders announced over loudspeakers late at night. Al-Ja'bari noted that on Saturday, residents were unable to enter or leave the city, leaving families with little time to prepare.

Israeli forces have conducted operations in at least 15 areas of the West Bank, including Jenin, Nablus, Ramallah, Al-Bireh, Birzeit, Bethlehem, and occupied East Jerusalem. The Palestinian Prisoners' Society reported that approximately 70 Palestinians were arrested during these raids. Journalists documented an operation near the Farsh al-Hawa checkpoint where soldiers bulldozed homes and vehicles, firing a stun grenade at reporters present at the scene.

The Palestinian Authority, which governs the West Bank, described the military actions as collective punishment. The PA cited home demolitions and the siege of Palestinian cities, urging the international community to apply pressure on Israel to protect residents. Hamas issued a statement claiming that escalations by the occupation and settlers would fuel further outrage among the population.

Issa Amro, a Palestinian activist in Hebron, said the 800,000 residents in the city and surrounding areas are under siege with all entrances and exits closed. He described the city as being in fear, with no safe place for anyone to hide. About 200,000 Palestinians live in Hebron city, while another 600,000 reside elsewhere in the governorate.

The military operations are occurring days before Israeli parliamentary elections scheduled for October 27. Nour Odeh, a West Bank correspondent, said politicians are attempting to capitalize on the attack. She noted that Netanyahu and his Likud party are trailing in the polls and are projecting strength by emphasizing their combat against Palestinians. Netanyahu declined to confirm if he plans to dismantle the Palestinian Authority but said a big surprise awaits the organization.