Israel's West Bank crackdown tests election impact after Hebron shooting

Israel is preparing a full lockdown of the occupied West Bank following a shooting near Hebron that killed two Israeli soldiers on Friday. The military operation includes community lockdowns, forced displacements, and building demolitions, which Palestinians condemn as collective punishment. With Israeli elections scheduled for Tuesday, far-right politicians are using the attack to advocate for annexation and stricter policies against Palestinians. The escalation raises questions about whether the crackdown is driven by security needs or used to expand Israel's occupation of Palestinian territory. The situation highlights the intersection of military action and political campaigning, as the attack provides a platform for hardline candidates. Analysts are debating the extent to which the crackdown may influence voter turnout and election outcomes.