Israel launches military drill and closes West Bank crossings ahead of election amid raids

Israel has initiated preplanned military drills and implemented significant movement restrictions in the West Bank as the nation approaches its election on October 27, 2026. Military exercises, simulating a multifront attack, commenced today, Sunday, October 25, in the northern and central regions of the country, involving the Israeli Air Force and various commands. Concurrently, Israel has announced that all land crossings with the West Bank will be closed on election day, and Palestinian workers will be barred from entering Israeli communities and industrial zones in the West Bank from Sunday until after the election.

These heightened security measures follow a deadly attack on October 23, in which two Israeli soldiers were killed by Palestinian gunmen near Hebron. In response, Israeli forces launched a major operation in the West Bank, focusing on the Hebron area. This operation has involved widespread raids, searches, and demolitions of infrastructure.

Overnight raids in Hebron have resulted in the displacement of approximately 2,000 to 2,200 residents, with Defence Minister Israel Katz indicating that their return is contingent on addressing "Hamas issues" in the city. This intensified military activity and tightened restrictions occur just two days before a closely contested election, where Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has pledged a firmer stance on militancy.