Daily life across the West Bank remains at a standstill for the third consecutive day as Israeli forces enforce a sweeping closure of the territory, intensifying hardships for Palestinian residents amid escalating regional tensions.
The Israeli army declared a state of emergency on June 13, imposing movement restrictions between cities, towns, and villages. Israeli media cited the closure as a precautionary measure following heightened security concerns, including recent escalations with Iran.
Palestinian security sources confirmed major roads linking northern, central, and southern areas of the West Bank have been sealed, with iron gates and mobile checkpoints blocking strategic routes. A Palestinian official, speaking anonymously, described the closure as having "effectively paralyzed daily life,"> disrupting commerce, education, and healthcare access.
Eyewitnesses reported heightened military activity, including the use of live ammunition, rubber-coated bullets, and tear gas to disperse gatherings. Urban centers and refugee camps face isolation due to encirclement by security forces.
The Palestinian Red Crescent Society warned of severe impacts on medical services, with emergency teams struggling to reach patients. "Every minute delayed risks lives,"> the organization stated, urging international attention to the humanitarian crisis.
With no clear timeline for lifting restrictions, analysts warn the closure could exacerbate economic strain and social unrest in the region.
