IDF Declares Closed Military Zone in West Bank After Israeli Settlers Seize Palestinian Homes

The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) announced on Tuesday evening the imposition of a closed military zone order in the area of the Palestinian villages of Qawzah and Jalud in the West Bank. This measure applies to anyone who is not a resident of the area, following multiple incidents where Israeli civilians reportedly entered Palestinian homes and lands and took control of them. The IDF condemned these actions as illegal, reprehensible, and harmful to the local Palestinian residents and their community fabric.

The military statement also addressed the unusual possibility of soldiers being involved in these events, clarifying that any reservists or regular IDF personnel found participating will face disciplinary action. The incidents occurred in the jurisdiction of the IDF's Samaria Brigade over recent weeks, with several reports of Israeli civilians unlawfully entering Palestinian properties.

In response to these events and reports of disturbances in the area, the IDF decided to enforce the closed military zone order to prevent further unauthorized access. The army emphasized that all involved parties will be dealt with in cooperation with other security forces.

Additionally, the IDF reported an incident on Monday in Qawzah where an ambulance passage was coordinated to allow medical access through the military checkpoint into the Palestinian area under the closed zone. Upon arrival, soldiers identified Israeli civilians inside the ambulance who allegedly attempted to enter the restricted area under its cover. The ambulance was inspected by military personnel and later by Judea and Samaria police. The IDF stressed that it routinely facilitates the movement of medical teams, including allowing ambulances to pass without inspection when coordinated in advance.