Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has instructed the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) and security agencies to prepare for a possible full closure of the occupied West Bank following a shooting attack near Hebron that reportedly left five Israelis wounded and two Palestinian men dead.
According to media reports, Netanyahu announced the decision after a security assessment involving senior defence and intelligence officials. He ordered an immediate security cordon around Hebron and preparations for wider restrictions across the West Bank, starting Friday, October 23.
What Happened Near Hebron?
- The shooting took place early Friday near Judea Junction, also known as the Farsh al-Hawa checkpoint, on Route 35 near Hebron in the occupied West Bank.
- According to reports, two armed Palestinian men opened fire and exchanged shots with Israeli security forces. Israeli troops subsequently shot and killed both men.
- Israel’s emergency medical service reported that five Israelis were wounded, including two who were in critical condition.
- The Israeli military said its forces acted quickly to stop what it described as a potentially larger attack. Authorities also reported finding ammunition in the vehicle allegedly used by the attackers.
Netanyahu Orders Wider Security Restrictions
- Following the incident, Netanyahu held a security assessment with Israel’s defence minister, military chief, Shin Bet security service officials and other senior security personnel.
- He directed the military to impose a cordon around Hebron and prepare for a full closure of the West Bank.
- Israeli forces have reportedly established checkpoints and tightened movement restrictions around Hebron and nearby villages. Open source Telegram groups have also reported that numerous checkpoints in the region have been closed.
- However, reports of individual checkpoint closures do not independently establish that a complete West Bank wide lockdown has already been implemented.
What Could the Closure Mean for Palestinians?
If the wider closure is implemented, Palestinians could face additional restrictions on movement between cities, towns and villages.
Potential consequences include:
- Travel disruptions: Longer journeys and delays at military checkpoints.
- Work and education: Difficulties reaching workplaces, schools and universities.
- Healthcare access: Possible delays for patients and people requiring emergency medical assistance.
- Economic impact: Further disruption to trade, transport and everyday commercial activity.
The impact will depend on the scope and duration of the restrictions and which roads and crossings remain accessible.
Movement restrictions were already a concern before Friday’s incident. Palestinian media had reported closures of several checkpoints and access gates northwest of Ramallah, causing traffic congestion and forcing residents to take longer routes.
Political Reactions and Wider Tensions
- The incident comes just days before Israel’s October 27 election. Netanyahu cancelled scheduled political events following the shooting.
- Israeli National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir called for the Palestinian Authority to be dismantled, renewing his demands for a tougher security policy.
- There was no confirmed evidence in the reports establishing that the Palestinian Authority was connected to the shooting. Opposition figures also criticised the government’s handling of security and the political statements made following the attack.
What Happens Next?
- The immediate focus is on whether Israeli forces extend the existing restrictions around Hebron into a broader closure affecting the entire West Bank.
- The situation remains fluid. The announcement that the military has been instructed to prepare for a full closure should not be confused with confirmation that every crossing and checkpoint has been shut.
Business Galaxy will continue to follow developments and report confirmed updates as more information becomes available.
Editorial note: This report distinguishes the announced military preparations from checkpoint closures reported on the ground. The extent and duration of any territory-wide closure require further confirmation.
