Israel Imposes Full Closure on Hebron Following Deadly Terror Attack

Following a shooting attack earlier on Friday in the Judean Brigade area, Israeli military and Border Police forces launched an offensive operation in the Hebron region. A full closure, or "eter," was imposed on the city of Hebron and surrounding villages. Soldiers are currently operating in the homes of the terrorists and other suspects. The attack resulted in two critically injured individuals, who were treated under fire by Magen David Adom paramedics and transported to hospitals. The two terrorists, who used an M16 rifle and a pistol, were neutralized by soldiers from the "Ari" battalion of the Home Front Command.

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced that he had concluded a situation assessment with the Defense Minister, Chief of Staff, head of the Shin Bet, National Security Advisor, and commander of the Central Command. He praised the soldiers for their decisive action in preventing a larger attack and wished the injured a swift recovery. Netanyahu ordered the IDF and security forces to immediately impose a closure on Hebron and a full lockdown on all of Judea and Samaria starting Friday. He stated that forces are operating with increased capacity to thwart terrorism and are conducting widespread arrests, vowing to pursue Hamas terrorists and their handlers everywhere.

Additionally, over the past week, security forces conducted dozens of offensive operations in Judea and Samaria, based on Shin Bet intelligence. These operations led to the arrest of over 70 wanted individuals, including those affiliated with Hamas and Islamic Jihad, as well as inciters against Israel and the IDF. During these operations, dozens of weapons were seized, including M16 rifles, "Carlo" submachine guns, airsoft guns, and four explosive devices. The IDF spokesperson stated that security forces will continue their offensive operations to thwart terrorism and ensure the safety of Israeli citizens.