In brief
Last Friday a deadly attack on an Israeli checkpoint outside Hebron killed two soldiers, prompting Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to order a demolition of local homes. Bulldozers tore down buildings near the attackers’ neighbourhood, fuelling concerns over collective punishment. The incident hits a high‑tension period as settler clashes and an upcoming national election add pressure. Reports suggest the gunmen were carrying ammunition meant for a larger strike and officials found a large cache in the car. Total casualties this year number 96 Palestinians killed by Israeli forces, and four Israelis have died in such bouts.
Hebron gets bombed after a deadly attack on soldiers.
Last Friday, two Israeli soldiers were killed when Palestinian gunmen opened fire on a checkpoint outside Hebron. The gunmen were shot dead by Israeli forces, but the fighting caused a stir.
In response, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu ordered the military to demolish buildings in the neighbourhood where the attackers came from. Current footage shows bulldozers tearing down homes, sparking fears of collective punishment.
The violence comes at a time of high tension: settler attacks on Palestinians during the olive harvest, and Israel’s national election is just four days away.
Official reports say the attackers had a bag of ammunition and may have planned a bigger strike on Route 35. About 96 Palestinians have been killed in the West Bank this year, while at least four Israelis have died during similar incidents.
Netanyahu and far‑right ministers have called for harsher military action, including “casing” Hebron and possibly mirroring operations in Gaza. Opponents of the hardline stance have pledged condolences to the soldiers’ families while still supporting the fight against terror.
