Israeli military forces fatally shot two men on Friday near the city of Hebron in the occupied West Bank following what the army characterized as an attack on Israeli civilians. At least five people sustained injuries during the incident, with some described as in critical condition. According to military statements, the two gunmen were armed with an M16 rifle and a handgun. The identities of those killed and wounded remained unconfirmed at the time of reporting.
In response to the shooting, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu convened an emergency meeting of the Security Cabinet and senior military and security officials. Netanyahu attributed responsibility to Hamas, stating the organization had been “planning a major attack aimed at murdering innocent civilians” and praised soldiers for thwarting the operation. He did not provide specifics about the alleged planned attack or clarify whether the wounded included soldiers or civilians.
Following the incident, Israel’s government ordered security forces to immediately establish a cordon around Hebron and prepare for a comprehensive closure of the West Bank beginning Friday. The order represents the fourth such restriction imposed on the territory within the preceding month. While Israeli roads in the area remain accessible to Israeli drivers and settlers, Palestinian movement faces significant limitations through checkpoints and gates.
Far-right National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir used the incident to argue for stricter Palestinian movement restrictions in the West Bank, contending that security considerations outweigh freedom of movement concerns. Israeli authorities conducted dozens of operations throughout the West Bank in conjunction with the incident, resulting in multiple apprehensions of individuals affiliated with Hamas and Islamic Jihad, along with the seizure of various weapons.
The shooting occurred amid heightened political tensions, with Israeli voters scheduled to decide the following Tuesday on whether to return Netanyahu to office or pursue different political leadership. Netanyahu has previously warned of potential attacks by adversaries timed to influence the electoral outcome.
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