In brief
The Israel Defense Forces announced a full ban on Palestinian workers entering Israeli settlements and a closure of all West Bank land crossings on election day. The move follows a deadly attack near a checkpoint that killed two soldiers and injured another, prompting a hardening of security measures. The IDF also ordered demolitions and displacement of hundreds in Hebron, part of a broader crackdown that has already capped the number of work permits held by Palestinians. Analysts warn the restrictions could further inflame tensions and undermine the fragile political climate ahead of the election. The announcement comes as Netanyahu’s government faces massive protests demanding accountability for the October 7 assault.
All West Bank land crossings will be closed on election day, the Israeli military announced, adding a ban on Palestinian workers entering settlements across Judea and Samaria and the Jordan Valley.
The restrictions come after Palestinian gunmen killed two Israeli soldiers and injured a third at a checkpoint, prompting the IDF to order a wide‑scale security crackdown.
The ban will affect more than 100,000 Palestinian workers who previously logged into Israel; since the October 7 Hamas attack, only a small fraction have had permits restored.
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who is campaigning for a third term, said the operation would target suspected attackers, and has been demolishing homes in Hebron, displacing hundreds of families.
Israel Katz, the defence minister, noted roughly 2,000 residents had been displaced, with footage showing at least one street flattened. The Israeli forces have cordoned Hebron, heavily restricting movement for its 200,000 residents.
Critics call the demolitions a form of collective punishment, and analysts warn the crackdown risks inflaming tensions further as the election approaches.
Meanwhile, hundreds gathered in Tel Aviv in an anti‑government protest organised by the October Council, demanding accountability for the Hamas‑led attacks. Netanyahu threatened a “very big surprise” to the Palestinian Authority in a televised interview.
Hebron’s mayor said the operation was “driven by the elections” and that Netanyahu and ministers are trying to secure the far‑right voters and settlers’ support.
