Palestinian families given no notice of evacuation or assurance of return

By the Editorial Team · Tuesday, October 27, 2026

The Israeli Defense Forces have evacuated several Palestinian neighborhoods in Hebron following a deadly attack on Israeli soldiers, displacing over 2,600 people without clear information on the duration or conditions of their displacement. This sudden evacuation has created urgent humanitarian challenges, including shortages of medical care, shelter, and essential supplies, particularly for vulnerable groups amid escalating tensions.

Following a recent terrorist attack in Hebron, the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) have imposed new security measures, including the evacuation of several Palestinian neighborhoods, affecting hundreds of families without prior notice or clear assurances of return, according to local Palestinian officials.

The security actions come after an attack on Friday in which two Israeli soldiers were killed and several others wounded. The assailants, identified as Ahmed and Hamouda al-Jabar from the Ein Deir Bahha neighborhood, carried out the attack prompting the IDF to establish new checkpoints and evacuate parts of Hebron.

Riyad Khamis, spokesperson for Hebron’s Official Support and Relief Committee, reported that 407 households, amounting to 2,649 people, have been disrupted by the military operation. This population includes vulnerable groups such as 1,109 minors—with 180 children under two years old—218 elderly individuals, 115 pregnant or postpartum women, 28 people with disabilities, and 162 persons living with chronic illnesses.

Khamis emphasized the abrupt nature of the evacuations, stating families received minimal time to pack and left under high-pressure conditions. He noted there was no direct communication between residents and the military, only notices demanding evacuation that lacked clear information about the duration of the operation or the possibility of return. According to Khamis, no arrangements were made to assist elderly, disabled, or sick residents during the evacuation process, complicating an already difficult humanitarian situation.

The displaced families have sought shelter mainly with relatives or through rented accommodations. However, Khamis indicated that 168 households remain without housing options, forcing some to spend nights outdoors. He described the situation as a “difficult humanitarian reality,” marked by overcrowded living conditions and shortages of basic necessities.

Based on data collected from the displaced community, Khamis outlined significant needs including food supplies for 231 households, medicines for 129, baby formula and diapers for 107, and shelter assistance for 126. Additional aid requests cover clothing, bedding, and psychological support.

Highlighting health concerns, Milena Ansari, director of the Occupied Palestinian Territory Department at Physicians for Human Rights Israel, warned that the disruption of routine medical care could escalate chronic health conditions into emergencies. She pointed out that patients dependent on ongoing treatment for diseases such as diabetes, hypertension, kidney disease, or cancer may face critical risks due to interruption in care and restricted movement. Ansari also noted that displacement exacerbates challenges in accessing medications, doctors, and medical records, risks further heightened during the approaching winter months.

The IDF had not provided a response regarding the evacuation or plans for the residents’ return by the time of reporting. The evolving situation underscores ongoing tensions and humanitarian concerns in Hebron amid continued security operations.

This article was reported by synthesizing coverage from multiple independent news outlets to present a balanced, unbiased account. Read about our editorial standards. Spotted an error? Let us know.