Israel presses ahead with West Bank army operation days before election

Israel has intensified a military operation in the West Bank, displacing approximately 2,000 Palestinians in Hebron just days before the country's general election on Tuesday, local time. The operation, which began on Saturday following the killing of two Israeli soldiers by Palestinian gunmen in Hebron, has resulted in the demolition of homes and businesses.

Israeli troops sealed off the city, preventing Palestinian drivers from accessing the area. Defence Minister Israel Katz stated that the 2,000 displaced residents will not be allowed to return until all Hamas-related issues in Hebron are addressed. Israeli forces warned residents to evacuate overnight, leaving the streets deserted except for a few military vehicles.

The gunmen's neighbourhood in Deir Bahha saw residents leaving their homes, uncertain about their future. The attack has heightened tensions and prompted Israeli politicians to make strong statements, promising to demolish Palestinian buildings and impose severe consequences for terrorism targeting Israeli citizens. The right-wing ministers involved in these promises are eyeing the election to demonstrate their commitment to security, which is a key issue for their campaign.