Netanyahu orders preparations for full West Bank closure after Hebron attack
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s office ordered security forces to cordon off Hebron and prepare for a complete closure of the occupied West Bank from Friday, after a shooting near the city. The military said soldiers killed two men who had attempted an attack on Israeli civilians near Yehuda Junction and were carrying an M16 rifle and a handgun. It did not identify the dead, specify their intended target or release details about the other people involved.
Emergency responders said at least five people were taken to hospitals in Israel, some in critical condition. Two men in their 20s had gunshot wounds to their lower limbs, and one was unconscious and seriously injured. Responders reported that shooting was still under way when they reached the scene. The military subsequently erected roadblocks and imposed closures in nearby Palestinian towns while authorities opened an investigation.
The incident comes days before Israeli voters are due to decide whether Netanyahu will remain prime minister, amid official warnings of possible attacks ahead of the election. Far-right national security minister Itamar Ben-Gvir cited the shooting to argue for tighter restrictions on Palestinian movement in the West Bank, saying the safety of settlers and security personnel should take precedence. Netanyahu has also claimed, without presenting evidence, that Hamas could seek to influence the vote through an attack.
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