Israeli raid Qabatiya: Curfew imposed, homes seized

Israeli raid Qabatiya as forces impose a full curfew, seize homes, arrest residents, and expand military operations across the occupied West Bank.
Israeli forces have intensified their military presence in the occupied West Bank town of Qabatiya, imposing a full curfew and taking over civilian homes as part of an expanded security operation. The move comes after directives from Israel’s defence minister calling for tougher action against the town.

Widespread Raids and Forced Evictions Reported

Local residents and Palestinian media sources say Israeli troops entered Qabatiya from multiple directions, blocking access roads and restricting all movement. Dozens of families were reportedly ordered to leave their homes, which were then repurposed as temporary military bases and interrogation sites.

Witnesses described mass questioning of residents, with many people detained for hours during searches of neighbourhoods. Several homes were searched, and residents said soldiers remained stationed inside occupied buildings.

Military Says Operation Targets Security Suspects

Israel’s military confirmed the deployment of troops, border police, and intelligence units, stating the operation is focused on locating suspects and weapons. According to Israeli officials, the raid is linked to an alleged attack in northern Israel, which authorities say was carried out by a person originally from Qabatiya.

The army also announced preparations to demolish the family home of the suspected attacker, a policy Israel has used repeatedly in similar cases.

Human Rights Groups Criticise Collective Punishment

International and Palestinian rights organisations have consistently condemned home demolitions and forced displacement, arguing that such actions violate international law and amount to collective punishment. Critics say families are punished despite not being accused of any wrongdoing.

Residents in Qabatiya expressed fear and uncertainty, saying the curfew and military pressure have disrupted daily life, access to food, and medical needs.

Raids Expand Across the Occupied West Bank

The operation in Qabatiya is part of a broader escalation across the occupied West Bank. Reports indicate additional Israeli raids took place in areas near Ramallah and Hebron, where several Palestinians were arrested and some injured during confrontations.

These operations have become increasingly frequent, with Israeli forces conducting near-daily incursions into towns and refugee camps since the war in Gaza began.

Rising Arrest Numbers and Detention Concerns

Palestinian prisoner advocacy groups report a sharp increase in arrests over the past year, with thousands held in Israeli detention facilities. Many detainees are reportedly being held without formal charges under administrative detention orders.

Human rights organisations have raised alarms over treatment inside prisons, citing allegations of abuse, mistreatment, and denial of basic rights.

Growing Tensions in the West Bank

Analysts warn that continued military operations, home seizures, and curfews risk further destabilising the West Bank. With economic conditions worsening and movement restrictions tightening, residents face growing hardship amid an already volatile political climate.

As operations continue, international observers are closely watching whether the situation escalates further in Qabatiya and surrounding areas.