Israel presses ahead with West Bank operation as election approaches

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1. 2h ago

   Israel Continues West Bank Operation Ahead of Election

   Israeli forces are pressing ahead with a massive military operation centered on the West Bank city of Hebron, following a shooting attack that left two Israeli soldiers dead and wounded at least three others. The sweeping crackdown involves widespread home and neighborhood demolitions, military blockades, and the conversion of residential properties into military posts. The actions have displaced between 1,200 and 2,670 residents, drawing concern as displaced families seek shelter while military restrictions limit movement and close crossings.

   Why it matters

   The operation unfolds in the final days before a tense Israeli election that serves as a referendum on Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's leadership and security policies. The military campaign follows years of war and comes in direct response to the deadly attack in Hebron. Disagreements have reportedly emerged within the leadership, with reports indicating the IDF chief told Netanyahu there is no justification for keeping Palestinians from their homes, even as the prime minister ordered the operation to continue.

   What is confirmed

   • At least five Israelis were wounded in a shooting attack in the West Bank.
   • Two Israeli soldiers were killed in the Hebron gun attack.
   • The Israeli military launched a massive operation and crackdown focused on Hebron.
   • Israeli forces razed neighborhoods and homes in Hebron, turning some homes into military posts.
   • The military announced that most Palestinian workers with permits would not be allowed into Israeli settlements for work.
   • The military claimed to have operated in over 400 locations over the weekend, arresting 40 Palestinians linked to Hamas or Palestinian Islamic Jihad.

   Still unconfirmed

   • The IDF chief reportedly told Netanyahu there is no justification for keeping Palestinians from their homes.
   • Palestinians are evacuating amid fears of a Gaza scenario in the West Bank.

   What to watch next

   • The outcome of the upcoming Israeli election.
   • Potential further escalations or operational changes in the West Bank following the prime minister's orders.
   • Official final tallies and humanitarian responses regarding displaced residents.
   Sources used for this update (21)

   1. CNN — Israel closes West Bank city after at least five Israelis wounded in shooting attack
   2. The New York Times — Israel Launches Crackdown in West Bank After Deadly Attack
   3. The Guardian — Israeli soldiers raze neighbourhood in Hebron, driving families from homes
   4. Reuters — Around 1,200 Palestinians are displaced in Hebron as Israel begins military operation
   5. NBC News — Bulldozers tear down home as Israel cracks down in the West Bank
   6. AP News — Days before Israeli election, military conducts massive West Bank operation
   7. Al Jazeera — Why Israel’s latest assault on Hebron is so significant for the West Bank
   8. CBS News — Israeli military to close West Bank crossings ahead of upcoming elections as massive operation underway
   9. The Times of Israel — Palestinian Authority says 2,670 displaced in Israel’s Hebron operation
   10. The Times of Israel — IDF op in Hebron after soldiers’ killing displaces 2,000, Katz says; PM vows ‘big surprise’ for PA
   11. Al Jazeera — Israeli forces turn Hebron homes into military posts amid lockdown
   12. i24NEWS — Hebron Siege: Palestinians Evacuate Amid Fears Of Gaza Scenario In The West Bank
   confidence 95%