Israeli forces have displaced around 1,200 Palestinians from their homes in Hebron, as part of a military operation following a shooting attack that killed two Israeli soldiers. The operation, which began days before key parliamentary elections, has led to widespread displacement and accusations of collective punishment.
The operation, focused on the neighborhoods of Al-Jaladah and Ein Deir Baha near the military checkpoint, involved the demolition of homes and shops, with Israeli officials citing the need to search for militants and weapons. The military has not confirmed the number of arrests made during the operation.
Palestinian authorities have condemned the operation as disproportionate and unjustified, with reports of homes marked with black crosses and families forced to leave without clear connection to the attackers. The operation is seen as part of a broader political strategy by Netanyahu's government to secure votes ahead of the October 27 elections.
Palestinian officials have accused Israeli forces of using the operation as a political tool, with some residents expressing fear and uncertainty about whether they will be allowed to return to their homes after the election period.