Israel Responds to Hebron Shooting with Raids, Demolitions, and Closures

The incident began around 7:30 AM when the two terrorists arrived in a stolen car with Israeli license plates at a surprise checkpoint at the northern entrance to Hebron. Armed with an M16 or M4 rifle and a pistol, they opened fire on the checkpoint after realizing they could not proceed to Route 35. A firefight lasted over 20 minutes, during which the attackers re-armed from their vehicle before being killed by security forces, including officers from the Paratroopers Brigade's 101st Battalion.

According to Calcalist, the IDF had raised its alert level twice in the past month due to concerns of escalation ahead of elections. Following the attack, the military deployed significant reinforcements, including the Duvdevan Unit and aerial assets, and imposed a cordon on Hebron, Halhul, and several nearby villages.

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu ordered preparations for a closure on Judea and Samaria, while Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich ordered the demolition of Palestinian buildings near the site. Israeli forces also closed the Ibrahimi Mosque in Hebron to worshippers, and at least four relatives of the attackers were reportedly arrested.