Israel Closes All Palestinian Border Crossings Amid Iran Escalation
Israel has closed all border crossings in the West Bank and Gaza starting Sunday, 1 March, until further notice, following joint military operations by Israeli and American forces against Iran.
The policy was announced by the Coordinator of Government Activities in the Territories (COGAT) and is stated not to affect the humanitarian situation in Gaza.
“As a result of the situation assessment and following operations launched by the Israeli and American military against Iran, a decision has been made to close all border crossings in the West Bank and Gaza Strip, including the Rafah crossing, from tomorrow onwards until further notice,” the official statement read.
Israeli authorities stated the policy applies to all Palestinians except those holding permits as vital workers, who remain authorised to cross through specific, unspecified crossings.
The statement further noted that the border closure to Gaza would not affect the humanitarian situation in the territory.
Previously, loud explosions were reported in several areas of the occupied West Bank, shortly after warning sirens sounded in several Israeli settlements. An Anadolu Agency correspondent reported missile fragments falling in several locations.
Palestinian Police Spokesperson Luay Arziqat said authorities received reports of missile fragments falling in four different locations in the West Bank, confirming no casualties or material damage were recorded.
On Saturday morning, the US and Israel launched a joint attack on Iran, citing the need to eliminate threats from the Iranian regime.
In response, Tehran targeted Israel and US military bases in the region using missiles and drones. Israel subsequently declared a special state of emergency and national alert.
Iran has pledged to deliver a strong response to the strikes and continues launching counter-attacks towards Israel and American military facilities in the region.
Iran’s Supreme National Security Council Secretary Ali Larijani confirmed that the Assembly of Experts would convene on Sunday, 1 March.
The Indonesian government has urged Indonesian Umrah pilgrims scheduled to depart in the coming days to postpone their travels following the escalating security situation in the Middle East.
UN Secretary-General António Guterres expressed regret over the US and Israeli strikes on Iran.
US President Donald Trump issued a strong warning to Iran against launching counter-attacks following the death of Iran’s Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei.
Following the escalating tensions in the Middle East, several countries neighbouring Saudi Arabia have taken steps to close their airspace for aircraft arrivals and departures.
Iran has launched further missile and drone attacks targeting Israeli territories and American military bases in the Middle East region.
Geopolitical tensions between Iran and Israel are assessed to risk triggering a surge in global oil prices.
Global gold prices are expected to rise sharply following the escalating conflict between Iran, Israel and the United States.