Ramallah – Israeli occupation forces arrested 45 Palestinians across the West Bank and occupied Arab East Jerusalem, also closing 255 stores near Nablus, Palestinian sources reported.
The Palestinian Prisoners Club disclosed that Israeli troops conducted raids in several cities, including Hebron, Ramallah, El Bireh, Bethlehem, Jericho, Jenin, and neighborhoods in East Jerusalem, targeting individuals deemed “wanted.” In Howara, south of Nablus, the Israeli army has shut down a significant number of commercial establishments, severely impacting the local economy.
According to Jordan News Agency, Palestinian Ministry of National Economy Director in Nablus, only 45 out of 300 stores on Howara’s main street are operational due to military roadblocks and economic blockades.
The prolonged closures and curfews, coupled with attacks by Jewish settlers, have led to substantial economic losses in Howara, forcing some businesses to relocate. Local merchants reported significant losses, with a considerable amount of perishable goods destroyed due to movement restrictions.
The closures have not only affected businesses but have also left many residents without a source of income. Critical checkpoints and roadblocks, including the main Huwara checkpoint with Nablus and the Beita junction, remain closed, restricting movement in and out of the town.