Hebron Markets: Demolition Campaign Displaces 200 Families

The West Bank's second-largest city, Hebron, faces a sudden contraction in its housing and commercial base. Israeli military bulldozers began demolishing homes, businesses, and infrastructure in the Ein Deir Baha and Farsh al-Hawa neighborhoods on Friday. The operation has displaced at least 200 families, according to the city's governor and deputy mayor.

Mayor Youssef al-Jaabari stated that the military is targeting approximately 0.35 square kilometers of urban land. He estimates the campaign will displace 2,500 people in total. Footage from the scene showed entire streets leveled and structures marked with spray paint for destruction. The Israel Defense Forces sealed off the city, restricting movement for its 200,000 residents. The army confirmed it has dozens of targets across the West Bank and expects operations to continue for several days.

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced the offensive following a checkpoint attack that killed two Israeli soldiers and wounded three others. Both Palestinian gunmen were killed. Netanyahu described the operation as a response to the attack, stating that buildings near the site and the gunmen's neighborhoods would be destroyed. He compared the current campaign to 2025 operations in northern Palestinian refugee camps, where the military destroyed hundreds of homes.

The timing of the operation coincides with Israel's general election in four days. Netanyahu canceled his party's campaign events for Friday morning to visit Hebron in protective armor. He said the forces would go house to house to remove weapons and destroy terrorist infrastructure. He also mentioned reviewing plans for the largest military operation in the West Bank since 1967, though he did not specify a timeline.

Local officials described the logistical impact on residents. Dozens of families spent the night outdoors, with some told to leave without their vehicles. Al-Jaabari told journalists the operation is driven by the election. He argued that Netanyahu and his cabinet are seeking votes from the far right and settler communities.

Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich urged for a campaign in the West Bank similar to those in Gaza or Lebanon. National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir called for the dismantling of the Palestinian Authority. The Authority itself requested urgent international action beyond condemnation to prevent further displacement. The IDF did not immediately respond to a request for comment regarding the specific economic impact on local businesses.

The military continues its sweep through the targeted districts. Residents in the affected zones report that commercial sites and industrial areas are included in the demolition scope. The city remains sealed as forces work through their list of targets.