IDF Imposes Military Closure in Western Negev Ahead of Nahala Movement March to Gaza Border

The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) announced a military closure order in the western Negev region starting Sunday at 08:00 until Monday at 08:00. This measure follows a security assessment related to a planned march by the Nahala movement advocating for Jewish settlement in Gaza. The restricted area extends from the Yad Mordechai junction westward along Highway 34 to the Sha'ar HaNegev junction, and from Sha'ar HaNegev westward along Highway 232 to Kerem Shalom.

The IDF clarified that despite the restrictions, residents and workers will still be allowed entry to local communities within the closed zone. The march is scheduled to begin Sunday at 17:00 from Yad Mordechai junction toward the Gaza border. According to IDF sources, the closure was imposed due to concerns that some participants might attempt to enter Gaza territory illegally during the demonstration.

The IDF emphasized that forces are deployed in the area and will act as necessary to maintain order and security. This development comes amid heightened tensions along the Gaza border, underscoring the military's preparedness to respond to potential breaches during the march.