Netanyahu Orders Full Lockdown of Occupied West Bank and Hebron Closure After Shooting Attack
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has ordered a full lockdown of the occupied West Bank and the closure of Hebron following a shooting attack that injured at least five Israelis, two of them critically. The emergency service Magen David Adom reported receiving a call at around 7:15 a.m. and said first responders provided medical treatment to the victims. According to Netanyahu, Israeli troops prevented what could have been a major attack, claiming the two suspects were carrying a large quantity of ammunition in their vehicle. “I salute the courage of our soldiers who acted with determination and prevented what could have been a major attack,” Netanyahu said in a statement.
Following an emergency meeting with Israel’s security cabinet and his top military advisors, Netanyahu posted a statement to social media in which he blamed Hamas for the incident and accused the group of “planning a major attack aimed at murdering innocent civilians.” The lockdown and closure are part of Israel’s response to the attack, which has heightened tensions in the region. The move is likely to further restrict movement for Palestinians in the West Bank, a measure that critics say amounts to collective punishment.
Gadi Eisenkot, a former Israeli army chief and one of Netanyahu’s main election rivals, praised the response by Israeli troops and wished the injured a full recovery. His comments underscore a rare moment of unity amid a heated political campaign. The attack comes amid a period of increased violence in the West Bank and Jerusalem, with Israeli forces conducting frequent raids and Palestinians carrying out attacks. The international community has repeatedly expressed concern over the cycle of violence and the humanitarian impact of closures.
As the situation develops, the lockdown is expected to have significant repercussions for daily life in the West Bank, with checkpoints tightened and movement severely restricted. The closure of Hebron, a flashpoint city, is particularly sensitive. Meanwhile, media outlets like Truthout, which rely on reader support, continue to provide independent coverage of such events. If you can support Truthout with a one-time or monthly donation, you will make a significant impact on our work. The coming days will be crucial in determining whether the situation escalates further or de-escalates through diplomatic efforts.
Shimanta Das 
