Israel Imposes Comprehensive West Bank Closure Until October 3

Defense Minister Israel Katz ordered a comprehensive closure of the West Bank starting Sunday, September 27, 2026. The measure, which follows a military recommendation and recent attacks, is scheduled to remain in effect until Saturday, October 3. The timing of the closure coincides with the Jewish holiday of Sukkot.

Israeli forces have closed border crossings and tightened military restrictions at checkpoints and barriers, with specific focus on Ramallah and Al-Bireh. These actions limit Palestinian movement and restrict access to holy sites. While the closure generally bars Palestinian workers from entering Israeli communities, the Israel Defense Forces Central Command has established guidelines allowing essential workers to enter industrial zones.

The closure has prompted appeals from nursing institutions to the government. Representatives for these organizations requested exemptions for approximately 940 West Bank caregivers, warning that the restrictions could disrupt medical care for thousands of geriatric patients within Israel.