13 Feb 2020 | 09:50 AM UTC
Israel/Palestinian Terr.: Heightened security measures reported in the West Bank February 13 /update 4
Media reports of heightened security measures in parts of the West Bank February 13; expect increase in police units
Event
Media sources have reported heightened security measures in parts of the West Bank on Thursday, February 13. The affected areas include Bethlehem and Ramallah, among others. Several arrests have also been reported, as well as the interruption of entry to some villages in west Ramallah. A heightened security presence will likely continue, especially on Friday, February 14, as groups may gather following afternoon prayers to continue protesting the recently proposed Middle East peace plan.
Context
Tensions have increased in the region since US President Donald Trump announced his Israeli-Palestinian peace plan on January 28. Palestinians have held multiple demonstrations in the Gaza Strip and the West Bank since the announcement, which have sometimes turned violent.
Advice
Individuals in the West Bank, and Israel more generally, are advised to monitor developments to the situation, avoid all protests and public demonstrations as a precaution, remain vigilant for militant activity, and adhere to instructions issued by local authorities and their home governments.
Some Western governments advise their citizens against all travel to the West Bank, the Gaza Strip, and areas near the Israeli-Lebanese, Israeli-Syrian, and Israeli-Egyptian borders.
