In brief
Israel’s Defence Forces announced that all West Bank land crossings would be shut during the Wednesday election, preventing Palestinian workers from reaching settlements and industrial zones. The decision follows an armed attack on a checkpoint that killed two soldiers and sparked a broader crackdown. Hebron has seen houses demolished, with nearly two thousand residents displaced, while the city remains heavily garrisoned. Amid rising domestic protests, the move is seen as a campaign strategy to mobilise far‑right voters and secure the ruling coalition’s victory.
All West Bank land crossings will be closed during Tuesday’s election, the Israeli military said, barring Palestinian workers from entering settlements and industrial zones.
The ban follows a deadly checkpoint attack that killed two soldiers and killed the two gunmen, prompting a sharp security response that includes demolishing suspected homes and restricting movement in Hebron.
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has warned of a “very big surprise” for the Palestinian Authority and hinted the operation is driven by election dynamics aimed at solidifying right‑wing support.
Despite the military’s restrictions, protests erupted in Tel Aviv, with thousands rallying against the government’s handling of the recent Hamas‑led attack and demanding accountability.
Hebron’s mayor, Youssef al‑Jaabari, criticised the demolitions as collective punishment and linked the crackdown to the upcoming vote.
These measures have cut Palestinian workers’ ability to travel into Israel, with fewer than a handful now allowing permits since last October, down from over 100,000 pre‑war.
