Israeli army concludes ten-day military operation in Hebron

The Israeli military has withdrawn from Hebron in the occupied West Bank, concluding a ten-day operation launched following a lethal attack on October 23 that resulted in the deaths of two Israeli soldiers. During the operation, which Israel attributed to Hamas, more than 3,000 residents—reportedly affecting approximately 800 families—were forced to evacuate their homes. Officials stated that the mission led to the seizure of four weapons and a quantity of tactical vests.

Returning residents reported significant damage to their properties, noting that some homes were used as temporary military bases. Palestinian authorities, including the local Civil Defense, have issued warnings for residents to exercise caution regarding potential unexploded ordnance and structural stability before reoccupying their homes. The provincial government is currently overseeing safety inspections, while Palestinian security services have redeployed to the area.

The operation faced international criticism, with UN Secretary-General António Guterres and High Commissioner for Human Rights Volker Türk expressing concern over the potential for ethnic cleansing. The mayor of Hebron condemned the blockade, labeling the measures as collective punishment.