The third consecutive day of a full West Bank closure declared by Israeli forces on June 13 has brought life across the region to a standstill. Major roads connecting northern, central and southern areas are sealed off by iron gates and mobile checkpoints, blocking movement between cities, towns and villages.
Israeli media say the restrictions will remain in place until further notice, with additional military units deployed at key locations. Palestinian security sources told Xinhua that the shutdown follows recent regional tensions, including an escalation between Israel and Iran.
A senior Palestinian security official said the closure has effectively paralyzed daily life, isolating urban centers and refugee camps. Medical services are under particular strain, with the Palestinian Red Crescent Society reporting serious obstacles for emergency teams trying to reach patients and transfer them to hospitals.
Local eyewitnesses described heavy military presence and the use of live ammunition, rubber-coated bullets, sound grenades and tear gas to disperse gatherings and prevent vehicle movement in several areas. As communities adapt to these constraints, the humanitarian and economic impacts continue to grow.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
