Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu ordered the closure of the entire West Bank on October 23, 2026, following a shooting incident at an Israeli military checkpoint in Hebron that left five people injured.

Netanyahu described the event as a thwarted potential major attack. The incident occurred at a checkpoint where two Palestinian gunmen were killed by Israeli security forces. The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) stated that the vehicle used by the attackers contained significant quantities of ammunition and weapons.

IDF Chief of Staff Lt. Gen. Eyal Zamir, speaking at the scene, indicated that the discovery of weapons and ammunition suggested the attackers may have intended a larger-scale operation. Israel's Magen David Adom emergency medical service reported that five individuals sustained injuries, with two of them in critical condition.

In response to the shooting, the IDF initiated a counterterrorism operation in Hebron and surrounding villages. Prime Minister Netanyahu's office released a statement detailing the order to close the West Bank, emphasizing the severity of the security situation.

While Hamas did not claim responsibility for the shooting, the group praised the attack and urged its supporters to conduct further assaults against Israeli soldiers and settlers. This event underscores the ongoing tensions and security challenges in the region.

The closure of the West Bank impacts movement for residents and security operations. Officials are assessing the full scope of the threat posed by the discovered weaponry and the extent of any planned attacks.

Further details regarding the individuals injured and the identities of the deceased gunmen are expected to be released as the counterterrorism operation progresses. The IDF's investigation will aim to determine the full capabilities and network behind the incident.

This developing story continues to unfold, with authorities monitoring the security situation closely across the West Bank and Israel.