Restrictions on Palestinian movement in West Bank allegedly at levels not seen in decades

Palestinians in the West Bank are experiencing movement restrictions at levels not seen since the Second Intifada, according to a Google News report. Since October 7, 2023, Israel has significantly increased roadblocks, checkpoints, and other barriers, leading to extended travel times and economic hardship. The UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) reported 925 movement obstacles as of March 2026, a 43% increase over the previous two decades' average. These restrictions, including new gates and tightened controls at existing obstacles, have made daily life and emergency situations more difficult.

“People spend an hour and a half waiting at the checkpoint,” said Jack Abed, a Greek Catholic priest, adding, “A month ago, a woman gave birth in an ambulance at the checkpoint... because they wouldn’t let her through.”

The IDF states that decisions on checkpoints are based on “operational assessments and security considerations” and are “continuously adjusted.” However, critics argue there is no clear overarching strategy, and the military itself may not have a complete record of all restrictions.