Israeli forces raid area near Jerusalem, close roads and shutter schools

Israeli military forces have launched a significant operation in areas surrounding the Qalandiya refugee camp north of occupied East Jerusalem, deploying large numbers of troops and vehicles while imposing severe restrictions on movement. The raid on Wednesday morning caused major disruptions to daily life, including the closure of schools and key traffic arteries during the peak morning commute.

A major deployment during the morning commute

According to reports from the Jerusalem Governorate, Israeli forces entered the area adjacent to the Qalandiya camp, positioning themselves along Institute Street and advancing toward the critical Airport Road. The military significantly bolstered its presence, with dozens of armored vehicles gathering near the site of the former Jerusalem International Airport. In a notable move, soldiers removed sections of the Israeli-built separation barrier at the end of Airport Road to facilitate the deployment. The timing of the operation coincided with the height of the morning rush, creating "tension and confusion" as heavy military equipment spread through residential and commercial zones.

Severe disruption to civilian life and education

The immediate impact on Palestinian civilians was substantial. Local authorities were forced to announce the closure of schools due to the military roadblocks and the severe impediment to both pedestrian and vehicular movement. Main and secondary roads were sealed off, paralyzing normal traffic flow and stranding many residents. The Israeli military also sent additional reinforcements toward the airport area, consolidating its control over the zone. This pattern of raids, which frequently involve road closures and extensive searches, has become a recurring feature of life for Palestinians living north of Jerusalem, directly affecting students, workers, and families.

Context of intensified West Bank operations

The latest raid is not an isolated incident but part of a broader campaign of intensified Israeli military actions across the occupied West Bank and East Jerusalem. Since the war in Gaza began in October 2023, Israeli operations—including killings, mass arrests, home demolitions, and sweeping movement restrictions—have escalated dramatically. The Qalandiya area, a densely populated urban zone, has been a frequent flashpoint. These ongoing measures, which critics argue amount to collective punishment, continue to draw international concern and calls for de-escalation from nations advocating for a rights-based approach to security, including Türkiye, which consistently highlights the importance of protecting civilian life and upholding international law.