Nahost: Israel bereitet Abriegelung des Westjordanlandes vor

In the lead-up to Israel's parliamentary election, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has reportedly indicated plans to enclose the West Bank, according to his office. The announcement follows an attack in the West Bank, resulting in several Israeli injuries and the deaths of at least two suspected Palestinian assailants. Israeli security forces are reportedly preparing to shut all crossings into the West Bank within the day.

The move comes after a security briefing, including with Defense Minister Israel Katz and Chief of General Staff Ephraim Zamir. Hebron, where the attack occurred, was among the cities targeted for closure. The incident has heightened tensions in the occupied West Bank, where around 700,000 Israeli settlers live among three million Palestinians.

The closure could prevent most Palestinians from visiting Israel for medical treatment or family visits, as they typically require prior approval. The conflict with Palestinians remains a significant topic in Israel's upcoming election, with right-wing politicians promising tough measures against Palestinian violence. However, the rise in attacks by radical Israeli settlers on Palestinians in the West Bank has received little attention from the political parties.