As soon as Ramadan began, tensions rose in the West Bank, with Israeli troops deployed

As the holy month of Ramadan commenced, Israel has heightened its security measures across the occupied West Bank, particularly in East Jerusalem. Israeli media reported that from Wednesday, the first day of Ramadan, security forces increased their alert levels to prepare for potential unrest and regional tensions.

The state broadcaster KAN stated that “with the start of Ramadan this morning, security agencies have raised alert levels in various locations, especially in East Jerusalem, the West Bank, and along the seam line.” The move is reportedly motivated by concerns over possible clashes with Palestinians and broader geopolitical tensions, particularly regarding Iran.

Troop Deployment and Precautionary Measures

According to KAN, the deployment plan focuses on increasing police and border police presence in East Jerusalem, notably around the Old City and the Al-Aqsa Mosque compound. The broadcaster added that “preparations are being made for extreme scenarios. Thousands of security personnel have been deployed on the ground during the first days of Ramadan.”

Discussions are ongoing regarding Palestinian worshippers’ access from the West Bank to East Jerusalem. Subsequently, Israeli authorities announced that 10,000 Palestinians would be permitted to attend Friday prayers for the weekly Jumu’ah congregation.

Arrests and Restrictions

Palestinian rights groups have reported a surge in arrest operations and the issuance of deportation orders in East Jerusalem in recent weeks ahead of Ramadan. The Wadi Hilweh Information Centre highlighted that these operations specifically target employees of the Islamic Waqf, recently released prisoners, and Palestinian workers in occupied East Jerusalem. According to the Centre, these actions appear aimed at reducing Palestinian presence at the Al-Aqsa Mosque—a deliberate policy that has raised international concern.

Since the outbreak of Israel’s offensive in Gaza, Israeli authorities have imposed strict movement restrictions on Palestinians travelling from the West Bank to East Jerusalem. Military checkpoints have been established between the two regions, allowing movement only for those holding permits issued by Israeli military authorities.

Political Context

Palestinians regard East Jerusalem as the capital of their future state. International proposals and statements have not recognised Israel’s 1967 occupation of the city or its 1980 annexation. Since 8 October 2023, following the escalation of conflict in Gaza, Israel has intensified military operations in the West Bank, including East Jerusalem. These operations have included killings, home demolitions, forced displacement of Palestinians, and expansion of illegal settlements.

The heightened security deployment and restrictions during Ramadan reflect Israel’s concerns over potential unrest amid ongoing conflict and broader regional tensions, signalling a tense start to the holy month for Palestinians in the occupied territories.