Israeli Defence Forces (IDF) troops have locked down the city of Hebron in the West Bank, forcing Palestinians and tourists to flee as heavily armed soldiers imposed curfew. The move has been met with widespread criticism, with locals describing it as a clear disregard for established norms.
Eyewitnesses reported that IDF soldiers arrived on foot and in armoured jeeps, shutting down shops and market stalls. Palestinian journalists were also told to leave the area, sparking concerns over press freedom.
The lockdown was sparked by the October 7th Hamas attack on Israel, which has escalated tensions in the region. Many Palestinians feel that the move is an attempt to assert control and suppress dissenting voices.
One local resident, Waseem Jabari, expressed his frustration with the situation: “We need justice, we need rights, and we need freedom. We don’t need any problems – Jewish, Christian, Muslim, we are all human people.”
As tensions continue to rise in Hebron and the wider West Bank, it remains unclear what the future holds for this troubled region. One thing is clear: the Israeli government’s actions have left many Palestinians feeling dispossessed and marginalized.
The lockdown has been met with international condemnation, but the Israeli authorities appear determined to assert their control over the city. For those living in Hebron, life under occupation has become increasingly unbearable.
Source: https://news.sky.com/story/west-bank-the-city-locked-down-by-heavily-armed-troops-where-what-was-once-law-now-means-nothing-13410530