Netanyahu imposes curfew in Hebron ahead of Israeli elections

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has imposed a curfew in Hebron and ordered preparations for lockdown measures across the West Bank, marking a significant security escalation ahead of elections scheduled for five days later. The decision comes as Netanyahu convenes meetings with the heads of Israel's intelligence agencies and military leadership to discuss security operations.

The Prime Minister stated that no Hamas militant or infrastructure would be permitted to remain in a secure position, signaling an intensification of Israel's security operations in Palestinian territories. The timing of the announcement, delivered just days before voters go to the polls, underscores Netanyahu's focus on security issues during the election campaign.

The Hebron curfew and planned West Bank restrictions represent a major policy shift, restricting movement and daily activities for residents in the affected areas. Israeli security forces have been placed on alert for potential operations against militant groups operating in the region.

The measures come amid ongoing tensions in the West Bank and renewed focus on Israeli-Palestinian security matters as a central campaign issue. Netanyahu's actions appear designed to demonstrate a hardline approach to security threats, a key element of his political messaging ahead of the electoral vote.