International

Israeli Forces Kill Two Palestinians Near Hebron

Israeli forces killed two Palestinians near Hebron in the occupied West Bank on Friday, October 23, 2026, after the military said they attempted an armed attack. At least five other people were injured, some critically, during the incident. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu subsequently ordered heightened security measures and preparations for a wider closure of the West Bank.

Israeli Military Reports Armed Attack Near Hebron

The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) said the two Palestinians were armed with an M16 rifle and a handgun when they allegedly attempted to carry out an attack.

Israeli soldiers opened fire, killing both men. Authorities reported at least five injuries, although the circumstances surrounding all the casualties remained under examination.

The military described its response as an operation to prevent an attack. Independent confirmation of the complete sequence of events was not immediately available.

Netanyahu Orders Security Measures in West Bank

Following the incident, Netanyahu instructed security forces to cordon off Hebron and prepare for a possible closure across the occupied West Bank.

He also convened an emergency meeting of Israel’s Security Cabinet to review the situation.

Netanyahu claimed that Hamas was preparing a major attack targeting Israeli civilians, although he did not publicly provide supporting details.

Israeli security forces also conducted operations elsewhere in the West Bank, arresting suspected militants and seizing weapons.

West Bank Tensions Rise Ahead of Israeli Elections

The incident occurred days before Israel’s parliamentary elections scheduled for October 27.

National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir called for additional restrictions on Palestinian movement following the reported attack.

Security closures in the West Bank can significantly affect Palestinian residents’ access to employment, healthcare and essential services.

The latest developments have heightened concerns about further violence as Israel approaches its national elections amid continuing regional security tensions.

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