Israeli forces continue West Bank raids as Hebron lockdown enters sixth day

Israeli forces are continuing their incursions into Hebron, the largest city in the occupied West Bank, as the city's lockdown entered its sixth day. Israeli troops conducted raids in several neighborhoods within Hebron city and across the wider governorate, tightening restrictions at city entrances.

The United Nations Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA) expressed "grave concern" over the situation in Hebron. The agency warned that these developments echo the 2025 "Iron Wall" operation and constitute a violation of international law.

Highlights

• Israeli forces conducted raids in Hebron and its surrounding areas, intensifying restrictions at city entrances.
• During the raids, four Palestinians were detained in Tulkarem, including a journalist, his two brothers, and an officer from the Palestinian General Intelligence Service.
• In Beita, south of Nablus, tear gas was fired at protesters demonstrating against the demolition of two homes belonging to families of Palestinian prisoners.
• UNRWA stated that the Hebron lockdown has displaced nearly 5,000 Palestinians and warned that "collective punishment" violates international law.
• Schools in southern Nablus have been ordered to switch to remote learning.

Details

According to Anadolu news agency, Israeli forces raided several neighborhoods in Hebron city and towns across the wider governorate on Wednesday. Troops also raided the Fawwar refugee camp south of Hebron around midnight, searching several Palestinian homes. The Wafa news agency reported that in Burin village, homes were raided and some were converted into military barracks.

These Israeli operations follow the killing of two Israeli soldiers by Palestinian gunmen at a checkpoint last week. The gunmen were subsequently killed by Israeli forces. Palestinian officials have accused Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and his hard-right government of exploiting the operation to secure settler votes ahead of Tuesday's elections in Israel.

Why it matters

The ongoing lockdown of Hebron and the raids across the West Bank exacerbate the humanitarian situation and restrict the freedom of movement for Palestinians. UNRWA's expression of "grave concern" and its warning against "collective punishment" highlight concerns about violations of international law. This situation could escalate tensions in the region, negatively impacting long-term peace efforts and further deteriorating the conditions for Palestinian refugees.