Inhuman israel arrests 80 Palestinians over missing settlers

Israeli forces have arrested some 80 Palestinians, including members of the resistance movement, Hamas and the Palestinian Legislative Council, in search of three settlers who have gone missing in the occupied West Bank.

The arrests were made early on Sunday as Israeli troops completely sealed off the city of al-Khalil (Hebron) and raided many homes. The teenagers disappeared on Thursday near a settlement north of the city.

As part of the “effort to return the three abducted Israeli teenagers, approximately 80 Palestinian suspects were detained in a widespread overnight operation,” the Israeli military said in a statement.

According to reports, Hamas leaders, Hassan Yousef, Wasfi Qabaha, Khaled Abu Arafeh and Mohammed Totah were among those held during the raids.

Palestinian officials said more than 100 Palestinians have been arrested since Thursday.

Israeli authorities claim the teenagers have been kidnapped by Palestinians. But Palestinian officials say they are cooperating with the search.

Israel has also closed the Kerem Shalom border crossing used for fuel deliveries to the Gaza Strip following the disappearance of the settlers. The Kerem Shalom crossing is the only way for fuel tankers to enter the besieged enclave.