US Embassy Warns of West Bank Checkpoint Closures Through October 3

The US Embassy in Jerusalem has warned of checkpoint closures across the West Bank from September 27 through October 3, with regular entry into Israel suspended during the period except for strictly medical and humanitarian cases.

The restrictions coincide with the Sukkot Jewish holiday and come as Israeli authorities increase security measures across the West Bank.

According to the embassy, holders of Jerusalem identification documents can continue to commute and travel freely. Holders of Arbel permits, however, will not be allowed to cross checkpoints, including by shuttle, except on medical or humanitarian grounds.

The restrictions also affect movement within parts of the West Bank. Palestinian official news agency WAFA reported that Israeli forces had closed several checkpoints, roads and entrances, causing significant congestion around locations including Qalandiya, Jaba’, Hizma, Zeitoun, Ein Sinya and Atara.

Israeli military deployments in the West Bank have also increased during the holiday period. The Jerusalem Post reported that the military had raised its presence to about 24 battalions, compared with a peacetime average of around 11, citing security concerns during Sukkot.

The measures prevent Palestinians from entering Israeli settlements during the holiday, according to the report, while movement restrictions are expected to remain in place until October 3.

The UN humanitarian office, OCHA, continues to track access restrictions and changes to movement conditions across the West Bank.

Source: FSX Business News