Netanyahu Promises 'Major Surprise' for Palestinian Authority Following Hebron Security Operation

OPA WIRE, Oct 24 (OPA) — The Israeli military operation in Hebron began following the deaths of two soldiers on Friday, October 24, 2026. The soldiers were killed by two Palestinian gunmen, who were subsequently shot and killed by Israeli forces. The military has cordoned off the Ain Deir Bah neighborhood, with local officials reporting that approximately 250 families have been forced to evacuate their homes. The operation, which involves house searches and the destruction of infrastructure, is expected to continue for several days.

Hebron Governor Khaled Dudin stated that roughly one-third of the city is currently under military restriction. Local residents and business owners were given two hours to vacate the affected area. While the military claims the operation targets the specific neighborhood from which the attackers originated, officials have expressed concern that the scope of the mission may expand further. Human rights group Yesh Din reported 672 incidents of settler violence over the past 26 days, adding to the volatile atmosphere in the West Bank.

Prime Minister Netanyahu, speaking to i24 News, signaled that more significant measures are planned. He stated that he would employ methods to neutralize threats that he preferred not to disclose at this time. Netanyahu defended his long-standing opposition to the creation of a Palestinian state, noting his resistance to pressure from three previous U.S. administrations. He further claimed that Israel has fundamentally transformed the Middle East through its recent military actions in Gaza, Lebanon, Syria, and Iran.

Despite the rhetoric, there is currently no evidence linking the Palestinian Authority to the Hebron attack. Hamas has publicly praised the shooting but has not formally claimed responsibility. As tensions remain high, the Israeli government faces internal pressure from right-wing figures, including National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir, who has advocated for the dissolution of the Palestinian Authority. Netanyahu reiterated that a major surprise for the Palestinian leadership is forthcoming, though he provided no specific details regarding the nature of these actions.