The Israel Defense Forces lifted a ban on Palestinian workers entering Jewish communities in Judea and Samaria on Monday night following a renewed security assessment, the military confirmed.
IDF Central Command chief Maj. Gen. Avi Bluth reversed an order issued on Saturday night that had prohibited Palestinian workers from entering the communities. The initial ban followed a wave of terrorist attacks, including a shooting near Havat Gilad in northern Samaria on Friday that killed two Israelis.
The previous restrictions had allowed Palestinian laborers to continue entering industrial zones, while individual communities could seek exemptions for construction work at local sites.
Israeli National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir objected to the reversal, describing it as a "capitulation" And "a grave mistake that could cost us precious Jewish blood."
"I call on the prime minister to instruct the IDF chief of staff to immediately revoke Maj. Gen. Bluth's decision, which sends a message of surrender to terrorism," Said Ben-Gvir.
Bluth had characterized the security situation in Judea and Samaria as "tense" During a Friday meeting with local community leaders following the deadly shooting. The IDF quoted him as stating: "Following the recent events, and especially this morning's attack, there is concern about escalation throughout Judea and Samaria. We are carrying out counter-terrorism operations to prevent the area from spiraling into further violence, and are using every means at our disposal."