Israel Imposes West Bank Closures

Summary

Updated 7:24pm ET

Israeli forces closed Hebron after two Palestinian gunmen killed two Israeli soldiers and wounded three others at a checkpoint near the city. Forces killed both gunmen in the exchange, and Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu ordered preparations for a full West Bank lockdown. The operation came days before Israel’s Oct. 27 election, as Netanyahu seeks reelection on promises to provide security. Israeli officials called the raids a security response aimed at militant infrastructure, while the Palestinian Authority condemned the closures, demolitions and displacement as collective punishment. Palestinians crossed some checkpoints on foot, and residents reported trouble reaching work, services and medical care. Netanyahu said he was considering a broader campaign.

Left and right

From the left

Left-leaning outlets cast the operation as a broad burden on Palestinian civilians, while tying the election fight to Netanyahu’s weakened security image. The Guardian highlighted local Palestinian authorities accusing troops of driving families out in “collective punishment”. The Boston Globe stressed that Gadi Eisenkot was a centrist alternative, not a left-wing break with Israel’s security politics. The New York Times focused on Netanyahu trying to rebuild his “Mr. Security” brand.

From the right

Right-leaning outlets framed the episode as a test of Netanyahu’s security leadership, with the military response central to the campaign. The Daily Mail tied Netanyahu’s tight race to his promise to keep Israelis safe. The same outlet presented the operation as a forceful response aimed at dismantling militant infrastructure. The Washington Examiner warned that a wider West Bank escalation could further strain relations with the United States.

Israel Imposes West Bank Closures

Summary

Left and right

From the left

From the right

Both sides, every morning

Articles

Left15

Center5

Right4

Also today