Three Israeli police officers were killed in a shooting attack near the Tarkumia checkpoint close to Hebron, as violence escalates in the occupied West Bank amid ongoing military operations against Islamist militants. The Israeli military confirmed that the attack occurred at the Idna Tarqumiyah Junction, prompting a manhunt for the assailants, who managed to flee the scene. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu described the attackers as part of a 'cruel enemy' and called for stronger measures against terrorism. The attack was praised by Hamas as a 'natural response' to Israeli actions in Gaza, although they did not claim responsibility. The incident follows a period of increased violence, including military raids that have resulted in numerous casualties on both sides since the outbreak of conflict in Gaza in October 2023. Israeli authorities have since imposed a security lockdown on the town of Idhna in response to the attack.