Netanyahu Vows "Largest West Bank Operation Since 1967" After Hebron Attack

As part of a new offensive strategy, Netanyahu announced that the IDF will implement a model in Hebron neighborhoods previously used in refugee camps. This approach involves imposing a closure, evacuating residents, conducting house-to-house searches to confiscate weapons, and systematically demolishing terror infrastructure. The Prime Minister indicated that this model could be expanded to other cities in Judea and Samaria, and announced an immediate closure on Hebron, Dura, and Halhul, or Dhahiriya according to Kikar HaShabbat.

The announcements followed a severe shooting attack at the Yehuda Junction, also referred to by Srugim as the Etzion Junction. According to Kikar HaShabbat, two 27-year-old Palestinian terrorists carrying significant ammunition opened fire at an IDF checkpoint, wounding five people, two critically, before soldiers neutralized them in a 20-minute firefight. Netanyahu stated that security forces had prior warnings of plans by enemies to carry out attacks ahead of the upcoming elections. Defense Minister Katz attributed the escalation to efforts by Iran and the Muslim Brotherhood to influence the elections.

In addition to the military operations, Netanyahu pledged to accelerate the demolition of illegal structures along roadways, which he stated pose a threat to Israeli forces. He also vowed to continue expanding Israeli communities in Judea and Samaria, pledging to build over 100 new communities and outposts, and praised the local Jewish residents as heroes and role models.