'Israel' orders West Bank crossings closed on election day

• Palestinian workers will also be barred from entering ‘Israeli’ settlements and industrial zones, with restrictions beginning ahead of election day.
• The measures add to an existing network of military checkpoints, roadblocks and barriers that disrupt Palestinians’ access to work, education, healthcare and other essential services.

‘Israel’ says it will close all land crossings between the occupied West Bank and ‘Israel’ to Palestinians on Tuesday, Oct. 27, citing election, further restricting movement across the occupied territory.

The ‘Israeli’ military said the decision had been approved by the country's political leadership following a recommendation from the security establishment. The restrictions will also prevent Palestinian workers from entering ‘Israeli’ settlements and industrial zones on election day, according to ‘Israeli’ media reports.

The military said Palestinian workers would face additional restrictions on Sunday and Monday, with exceptions for certain industrial zones and other approved areas. The crossings are expected to reopen and the work ban to be lifted after the election.

The closure comes as Palestinians across the West Bank already contend with an extensive system of ‘Israeli’ military checkpoints, roadblocks and iron gates that can make routine journeys between neighbouring towns and villages unpredictable and time-consuming.

Checkpoints disrupt daily life

‘Israeli military restrictions on movement affect Palestinians traveling to work, attending school or university, accessing healthcare and visiting relatives. Checkpoints and road closures can force people to take lengthy detours, while sudden closures can leave entire communities temporarily cut off from surrounding areas.

The restrictions also affect the Palestinian economy. Many West Bank residents depend on employment in ‘Israel’ or ‘Israeli’ settlements, making access permits and the opening of crossings essential to their livelihoods. Preventing workers from reaching their jobs can mean lost wages for households already facing economic pressures.

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