PT: Heightened security likely in West Bank through at least early October following recent low-level clashes and counterterrorism operations

Event

Heightened security measures are likely to affect parts of the West Bank through at least early October following recent low-level clashes between Palestinians and Israeli security forces and settlers, as well as Israeli counterterrorism operations in the territory. Palestinian demonstrations have generally preceded clashes with Israeli security forces in recent weeks.

Additional clashes between Palestinian protesters and Israeli security forces are likely in the West Bank over the coming days, especially near the town of Beita. Further clashes between Israeli settlers and Palestinians are also possible in the West Bank through at least early October. Israeli counterterrorism operations targeting suspected Palestinian militants cannot be ruled out over the near term. Israeli security forces may erect additional security checkpoints near affected areas; consequent transport disruptions are possible around any checkpoints.

Context

Beita, a West Bank town located south of Nablus, has been the epicenter of recent Palestinian demonstrations and accompanying clashes with Israeli security forces. Notably, Israeli soldiers firing rubber bullets killed a Palestinian man and wounded others in Beita Sept. 24 after Palestinian protesters, denouncing Israeli settlements in the West Bank, burned tires and hurled rocks at Israeli troops.

Israeli settlers have also engaged in clashes with Palestinians in the West Bank in recent days. Settlers reportedly threw stones at Palestinians in the South Hebron Hills area Sept. 28, wounding several people and igniting clashes between the sides that also reportedly left multiple Israelis injured.

Additionally, Israeli forces have recently conducted multiple raids against suspected Palestinian militants in the West Bank. Gunfights broke out between Israeli troops and suspected Hamas militants amid Israeli counterterrorism operations in the territory early Sept. 26, leaving five Palestinians dead and two Israeli soldiers wounded.

Advice

Avoid all demonstrations in the West Bank due to the likelihood of accompanying violence. Exercise caution and allot extra time for travel throughout the affected areas. Seek updated information on security conditions and possible movement restrictions before traveling. Do not attempt to bypass security checkpoints; even an accidental breach of the security cordon near a checkpoint may prompt a response from Israeli security forces.