WEST BANK | TUNGARU PRESS | October 25, 2026
Israel has announced that all crossings with the occupied West Bank will be closed on Tuesday during the country's parliamentary election, as military operations intensify following a deadly shooting that killed two Israeli soldiers.
The Israeli military has increased its presence across the territory, while restrictions in the city of Hebron have forced approximately 2,000 Palestinians from their homes.
According to Dutch broadcaster BNR, Israeli authorities are also considering the displacement of another 2,000 residents as part of the ongoing operation.
Election-Day Restrictions Announced
Israeli authorities say all crossings between Israel and the occupied West Bank will be closed on Tuesday because of the parliamentary election.
Palestinian workers will also be barred from entering nearly all Israeli settlements in the West Bank.
The restrictions follow a shooting on Friday that left two Israeli soldiers dead.
In response, Israeli forces have expanded their operations in the occupied territory, imposing additional security measures and restricting movement in several areas.
Hebron Sealed Off as Residents Displaced
In Hebron, Israeli forces have blocked all access roads, according to BNR.
The Israeli Ministry of Defence reported that approximately 2,000 Palestinians have already been displaced from their homes.
The report also states that authorities are considering plans that could force another 2,000 residents to leave.
If implemented, the additional displacement would significantly increase the number of people affected by the operation.
The closures and displacement have raised concerns about the situation facing Palestinian families who are unable to return to their homes.
Hebron Mayor Questions Timing of Operation
Hebron's mayor has accused the government of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu of using the military operation to gain political support ahead of Tuesday's election.
According to BNR, the mayor believes the measures are intended to appeal to right-wing voters and Israeli settlers.
The accusation comes as the Israeli government faces political pressure during the final days before the parliamentary vote.
The mayor's claims have not been independently established, and the Israeli authorities have presented the military response as a security measure following Friday's deadly shooting.
Thousands Protest in Tel Aviv
Meanwhile, thousands of demonstrators gathered in Tel Aviv on Saturday to protest against Netanyahu's government.
Among their demands was an independent investigation into the authorities' failure to prevent the Hamas-led attacks on Israel on October 7, 2023.
The demonstrations highlight continuing public criticism of the government's handling of security and accountability.
The protests took place as Israel prepared for its parliamentary election and continued military operations in the West Bank.
Security and Political Tensions Increase
The planned crossing closures, military raids and displacement of Palestinian residents have added to tensions ahead of the election.
Israeli authorities say their actions are connected to security concerns following the deaths of two soldiers.
However, Palestinian officials have criticised the scale of the operation, while Hebron's mayor has questioned its political timing.
With thousands of residents already displaced and further removals reportedly under consideration, uncertainty remains over how long the restrictions will continue.
The coming days will be critical for residents of Hebron as Israel prepares for its election amid growing security concerns, political protests and humanitarian pressures in the occupied West Bank
