Hebron, West Bank – Israeli occupation forces have tightened their siege on the Old City of Hebron in the southern West Bank, ahead of settler celebrations for what they call “Sarah’s Sabbath.” The increased security measures coincide with ongoing raids and incursions by the Israeli military into various Palestinian towns and cities.
Settlers have reportedly erected tents in the streets of the Old City and the courtyard of the Ibrahimi Mosque, preparing for the arrival of thousands of settlers. Palestinian residents report that Israeli forces have blocked entrances to homes near the mosque, restricting their movement and effectively paralyzing the lives of approximately 4,000 people.
Elsewhere in the West Bank, Israeli forces conducted raids in several neighborhoods of Al-Bireh and Ramallah. At least 15 Palestinians, including released prisoners, were reportedly arrested during these operations. The raids focused on the Askar refugee camp, and the towns of Madama and Beit Furik in the Nablus area. A similar campaign was carried out in Qalqilya and Dura, south of Hebron, resulting in the arrest of several young men following alleged mistreatment.
Palestinian and Israeli human rights organizations have documented instances of looting and theft allegedly committed by Israeli soldiers during raids on Palestinian homes in the West Bank. Witnesses claim that gold is frequently reported missing from homes that have been searched by Israeli forces.
The Al-Baydar Organization for the Defense of Bedouin Rights stated that settlers, accompanied by Israeli forces, raided the village of Al-Maleh in the northern Jordan Valley, detaining a number of residents before releasing them later. The organization emphasized that the Israeli incursion created tension among Palestinians, hindering their daily lives and placing continuous pressure on rural communities in the northern Jordan Valley.
In a separate statement, the organization reported that Israeli settlers had cut down fruit-bearing trees on farms in the village of Farasin, north of Tulkarm. The organization noted that these lands have been cultivated for years and represent a primary source of income for their owners. These actions are seen as a deliberate attempt to undermine Palestinian livelihoods.
