Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu ordered the closure of the entire West Bank on October 23, 2026, following a shooting incident at an Israeli military checkpoint in Hebron that injured five people.

Netanyahu described the event as a thwarted potential major attack, prompting a swift security response. The closure of the West Bank is a significant measure affecting movement and daily life for residents of the occupied territory.

The shooting resulted in two Palestinian gunmen being killed by Israeli security forces, according to the Israel Defense Forces (IDF). Among the five injured, two were reported to be in critical condition by Israel's Magen David Adom emergency medical service.

IDF Chief of Staff Lt. Gen. Eyal Zamir stated at the scene that the attackers' vehicle was found to contain substantial quantities of ammunition and weapons. This discovery led military officials to believe the gunmen may have been planning a more extensive assault.

In addition to the closure, the IDF initiated a counterterrorism operation in Hebron and its surrounding villages. The operation aims to further secure the area and apprehend any individuals involved or complicit in the attack.

Hamas, while stopping short of claiming responsibility for the shooting, issued a statement praising the attack. The militant group also urged its supporters to carry out further attacks against Israeli soldiers and settlers, indicating a potential escalation of tensions.

The incident underscores the volatile security situation in the West Bank, where sporadic violence and security operations are a recurring feature. The response from Prime Minister Netanyahu highlights the perceived severity of the threat posed by the attack.

Further details regarding the identities of the attackers, the specific nature of the planned attack, and the scope of the ongoing counterterrorism operation are expected to emerge as the situation develops.