On October 15, 2025, a violent shooting targeted a bus carrying Israelis in western Ramallah, West Bank, injuring at least five people, three of them in critical condition. The attack occurred in a volatile area known for frequent clashes between Israelis,

While the end of immediate bloodshed in Gaza is becoming increasingly likely, experts have warned that the occupied West Bank could quickly become the new flashpoint in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.

Israel’s sudden decision to indefinitely close the sole land crossing giving over 3 million Palestinians in the occupied West Bank access to international travel, has intensified fears of more restrictions amid Israel’s threats of retaliation against Western recognition of a Palestinian state.

From villages like Taybeh to once popular, now struggling tourist destinations like Bethlehem, Christians account for between 1%-2% of the West Bank’s roughly 3 million residents, the vast majority Muslim. Across the wider Middle East, the Christian population has steadily declined as people have fled conflict and attacks.

Home Front Command instructed residents to remain in their homes and lock all doors until further notice as the investigation took place, though the event has since ended. Authorities warned of a possible terrorist infiltration in the West Bank settlement Kohav HaShahar on Friday morning.

While much of the globe’s attention remains on the Gaza ceasefire deal, less than 33 kilometres (21 miles) away, Israeli settlers, often backed by soldiers, continue daily assaults and raids across the occupied West Bank.

One child was sitting on her mother’s lap. Another had just stepped outside his home. Another was picking almonds.

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