The Israeli military said its forces killed two Palestinians suspected of carrying out the attack, which occurred Friday morning near Yehuda Junction.

The incident comes just days before a crucial Israeli election that could determine whether Netanyahu remains in power, amid escalating tensions and growing violence across the occupied territory.

According to a statement from the prime minister’s office, Netanyahu instructed the Israel Defense Forces to impose an immediate closure on Hebron and prepare for a “full lockdown” throughout the West Bank beginning Friday.

Authorities did not immediately provide details about how the restrictions would be implemented, how long they would remain in effect or the extent to which civilian movement would be affected.

Following an emergency meeting with his Security Cabinet and senior military and security officials, Netanyahu accused Hamas of being responsible for the shooting.

The Israeli leader claimed the militant group had been preparing a larger assault intended to kill civilians.

He described the alleged plot as “a major attack aimed at murdering innocent civilians.”

Netanyahu also referred to the discovery of large quantities of weapons and ammunition, although he did not provide further information about the evidence or the suspected attackers.

“Our brave soldiers thwarted this attack with courage and determination,” Netanyahu said in a statement released through the Israeli government’s press office.

“I commend them for their actions and wish our wounded a speedy recovery,” he added.

The prime minister did not clarify whether those injured in the shooting were military personnel or civilians.

His allegations about Hamas’ involvement have not been independently verified.

The Israeli military said its troops shot and killed two people suspected of carrying out the attack near Hebron.

According to the military, the alleged attackers were armed with an M16 rifle and a handgun.

The identities of the two Palestinians had not been publicly confirmed as of late Friday morning.

Following the incident, the military announced that additional soldiers would be deployed to the area as security operations continued.

Israel’s emergency medical service, Magen David Adom, reported receiving an emergency call at approximately 7:15 a.m. local time concerning multiple casualties near Yehuda Junction.

Emergency responders treated at least five injured people, including two whose conditions were described as critical.

Further details about the victims and the circumstances of the shooting were not immediately available.

The shooting and subsequent lockdown order come amid a surge in Israeli military operations and settler violence across the West Bank.

Recent incidents have coincided with the beginning of the Palestinian olive harvesting season, a period that has seen heightened confrontations in several communities.

Palestinian residents, activists and American journalists have reportedly been among those attacked or detained during the recent unrest.

The developments have increased concerns about civilian safety and the potential for further escalation.

The proposed West Bank-wide lockdown could significantly restrict movement across the territory, although Israeli authorities have yet to explain the scope of the measures.

The latest violence also comes at a politically sensitive moment for Netanyahu, with an election approaching that will determine the future of his leadership.

The prime minister’s response places security concerns at the center of an already tense political environment.

While Israeli authorities say the restrictions are necessary to prevent further attacks, the broader consequences for Palestinian communities remain unclear.

Security forces are expected to maintain an increased presence around Hebron as investigations continue.

The identities of the two Palestinians killed, the circumstances surrounding the shooting and the full details of the planned lockdown have yet to be established publicly.