Israeli Army Continues Military Lockdown of Hebron for Seventh Consecutive Day

The Israeli army has continued its military lockdown of Hebron in the occupied West Bank for the seventh consecutive day, according to reports covering the week of restrictions, raids, and displacement. The measures follow the killing of two Israeli soldiers last week by gunmen near the Telem settlement.

Lockdown and Displacement

• Siege Conditions: According to reported updates, Israeli forces have closed all entrances and exits to Hebron since Friday of the previous week, restricting movement and access to critical services.
• Forced Displacement: More than 3,000 residents have reportedly been forced out of the city as Palestinian homes have been converted into military posts and barracks.
• Surrounding Areas: In addition to Hebron, 12 villages and hamlets in the Masafer Yatta region have been isolated, cutting off residents and patients from urban centres and medical care.

Casualties and Raids

• Injuries and Detentions: The Wafa news agency reported that two Palestinians were injured and seven were detained on a Thursday by Israeli forces. The Palestinian Prisoner’s Society stated that at least 110 people have been detained in the Hebron governorate since the raids began.
• Hospital Impact: Israeli forces reportedly fired tear gas canisters at Al-Ahli Hospital in Hebron, causing panic among patients and staff.
• Journalist Assaults: Settlers reportedly attacked three foreign journalists—Andrey Ilyich Khrzhanovskiy (Andrey X), Adele Shoko, and Jasper Nathaniel—on a Wednesday, with Andrey X reportedly losing consciousness and remaining detained without medical care.

Reactions and International Law

• Official Statements: Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced that he had ordered security forces to close Hebron and prepare for a full lockdown across the West Bank. Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich called for a comprehensive military campaign.
• Rights Organizations: Organizations such as Al-Haq and B’Tselem stated that the military operation amounts to collective punishment and violates international law. UN Human Rights Chief Volker Turk noted that collective punishment is a grave violation of international law, while UNRWA and monitor groups warned of displacement risks and annexation concerns.

To verify these developments, consult official statements from international monitoring bodies, verified humanitarian reports, and updates from established news agencies.