Israel Evacuates 2,000 Palestinians in Hebron Amid Military Operation

Israeli forces have compelled over 2,000 Palestinians to evacuate their homes in the Al-Jaladeh and Deir Baha areas of Hebron as part of an ongoing military operation. Families remaining in their homes have been ordered to leave without their vehicles, raising concerns about further displacement and a worsening humanitarian situation. The mayor of Hebron stated that Israeli forces have sealed the city, preventing entry and exit, which has halted hundreds of factories and businesses due to movement restrictions. Additionally, staff from the Ibrahimi Mosque were evacuated, prayers were prohibited, and its gates were closed. The mayor warned of the severe consequences of the continued operation on residents, the economy, and essential services, noting that local institutions are working around the clock to support affected families. The Palestinian government has also cautioned against escalating Israeli actions in the West Bank, particularly in Hebron, citing ongoing displacement and demolitions. They reported that over 40,000 Palestinians have been displaced from their homes in the northern West Bank since the start of 2025, warning of severe humanitarian and social impacts, including loss of housing and livelihoods. The Hebron operation follows a Friday shooting attack near the city's entrance that killed two Israeli soldiers and injured three, with the two Palestinian assailants also killed, according to Israeli authorities. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced a large-scale military operation in Hebron following the attack, including a city-wide lockdown, raids, and demolitions of buildings linked to the assailants. The Israeli military stated the operation aims to find weapons and suspects and could last several days. The operation has been accompanied by the evacuation of Palestinian families, demolition of buildings and businesses, and tightened restrictions on city entrances and roads to surrounding villages, disrupting movement and economic activity. Palestinian sources fear further forced displacement as more families are ordered to leave, warning that continued closures, raids, and demolitions will lead to a further humanitarian and economic decline in Hebron and its governorate.