Israeli government declares total blockade on the West Bank

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced a "total blockade" of the West Bank following a shooting that resulted in four deaths, including two Israeli soldiers. The blockade specifically targets Hebron, where the incident occurred, amid rising tensions ahead of the October 27 elections. National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir called for the dismantling of the Palestinian Authority, citing concerns over potential future conflicts. The Israeli military reported that two Palestinian shooters were killed during the exchange, while violence in the West Bank has escalated since the Hamas attack on October 7, 2023, with significant casualties on both sides.