Palestinians call for global help over Israeli Hebron operation

The Palestinian Authority has urged the international community to intervene amid Israeli security forces' actions in the West Bank's occupied territories, particularly in Hebron. The authority claims that the Israeli measures, which include displacing residents, demolishing houses and buildings, and sealing off towns, are collective punishment.

They argue that such actions will not enhance security or promote peace, but rather exacerbate tensions. On Friday, a shooting near Hebron resulted in the death of two Israeli soldiers and injuries to three others. The suspected perpetrators, both Palestinians from Hebron, were killed in response. Israel subsequently declared an anti-terror operation in the Hebron area, involving the army, intelligence services, border police, and civil administration.

The operation, expected to last several days, targets the area from which the terrorists originated. Hebron Mayor Yousef al-Jabari reported that 2,200 residents have been displaced since the raids began on Friday. He further stated that the Ibrahimi Mosque, a significant landmark in Hebron, has been sealed off, its staff evacuated, and prayers are prohibited.

The claims regarding the displacement of people and the closure of the mosque have not been independently verified. The military operation in Hebron is set to coincide with Israel's parliamentary elections taking place on Tuesday. Security matters and the Israeli government's stance towards the West Bank are key topics in the election campaign.

While right-wing parties are promoting a tough approach towards Palestinian violence to woo voters, they have largely ignored the issue of Israeli settlers' attacks on Palestinian civilians during the campaign.