The operation resulted in clashes that left several Palestinians injured.
Israeli forces arrested at least 20 Palestinians, including former prisoners of war, in the occupied West Bank during an overnight operation, according to a report by the Palestinian Prisoners of War Association.
The arrest operations were concentrated in Hebron (al-Khalil), Ramallah, Jerusalem al-Quds, Qalqilya, and Nablus, underscoring the heightened security measures across the region.
The Palestinian Red Crescent Society confirmed that five Palestinians, including a child, were injured by Israeli gunfire during clashes in the Jala Zone refugee camp north of Ramallah.
Earlier, Wafa news agency reported that Israeli forces had stormed the Hebron mayor’s residence, underscoring the continuing and far-reaching impact of the military presence on daily life in the city.
Hebron’s Old City remains heavily restricted, with more than 100 Israeli checkpoints and gates restricting Palestinian movement. Local residents have described the area as resembling a “prison,” and businesses often close off or install protective netting to keep out debris thrown in by settlers living above.
Israeli authorities are enforcing Palestinian vehicle restrictions on 65 roads leading into central Hebron, including the historically important Al-Shuhada Street. Armed soldiers regularly patrol the Old City, often guarding groups of Israeli settlers.
Israeli human rights group B’Tselem said, “The systematic abuse and harassment of Palestinians by settlers has become an entrenched part of life in Hebron,” highlighting the harm that military occupation and settlement expansion have caused to the Palestinian population. highlighted even more.
The arrests and restrictions illustrate continuing tensions and challenges in the West Bank, as the Palestinian population faces increased surveillance, restrictions on movement, and frequent clashes with Israeli forces.
