Israel Seals All Palestinian Crossings Amid US-Israeli Strikes on Iran

(MENAFN) Israel announced Saturday the complete closure of all crossings into Palestinian territories, effective Sunday and indefinitely, as the broadening US-Israeli military campaign against Iran sent shockwaves reverberating across the region — including into the occupied West Bank.

The decision was formally communicated through a statement by the Coordinator of Government Activities in the Territories (COGAT).

“In conclusion of a situation assessment, and following the operation launched by the Israeli and American armies (against Iran), it was decided to close all crossings in the West Bank and the Gaza Strip, including the Rafah crossing, as of tomorrow and until further notice,” the statement said.

The closure applies to all Palestinians, with a narrow exemption carved out for holders of “vital worker” permits, who would retain access through unspecified crossings. COGAT further claimed that shutting the crossings to Gaza “will not affect the humanitarian situation” in the enclave — an assertion likely to draw immediate scrutiny from aid organizations operating in the territory.

The announcement came as explosions rattled multiple areas of the occupied West Bank, with missile shrapnel reported falling across the territory shortly after sirens blared in several Israeli settlements, according to a correspondent on the ground.

Palestinian police spokesperson Luay Arziqat confirmed that authorities had received reports of missile fragments landing in four separate West Bank locations, though no casualties or material damage were recorded.

The developments unfolded against the backdrop of a rapidly intensifying regional conflict. On Saturday morning, Washington and Tel Aviv launched a coordinated strike against Iran, framing the operation as a move to neutralize “threats” posed by the Iranian “regime.” Tehran responded forcefully, unleashing waves of missiles and drones targeting Israel and US military installations across the region.

Israel subsequently declared a nationwide “special and immediate state of emergency,” while Iran vowed a “harsh response” to what it characterized as foreign aggression — signaling that the exchange of fire is far from over.

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