Israeli forces have displaced more than 2,600 people from Hebron following a major operation, as elections approach. The operation targeted a neighborhood linked to Hamas, with Israeli soldiers marking homes with crosses and demolishing structures. The move comes amid a military response to a shooting at a checkpoint, which led to two Israeli soldiers killed.
The operation, which began after a Friday attack by gunmen, saw Israeli troops evict hundreds from their homes and seal off the city with checkpoints. Prime Minister Netanyahu and Finance Minister Smotrich visited the site, vowing a harsh response. The IDF said the area was linked to Hamas, with 2,000 residents belonging to a clan associated with the militant group.
The displacement of over 2,600 people raises concerns about the impact on the region as elections loom. Palestinian activists say the operation is a form of collective punishment, with families not connected to the attack being affected. The Israeli military has not provided a timeline for the operation, which is part of a broader campaign in the West Bank.
The operation has sparked debate over its connection to the upcoming elections, with some suggesting it is a political move to bolster Netanyahu's chances. The IDF has not confirmed the full extent of the operation, and the displacement of families has raised questions about the humanitarian impact and the broader implications for the region.