Hamas: Israeli siege of Hebron and escalation of attacks throughout the West Bank constitute collective punishment In a statement on Monday, senior Hamas official Mahmoud Mardawi condemned Israel's comprehensive siege of Hebron (al-Khalil) and the ongoing attacks throughout the West Bank, describing them as "crimes of collective punishment" and some of the occupations continued to target Palestinians. Mardawi warned of the dangerous consequences of the escalation and said that Netanyahu and his government are using the attacks for "propaganda and election purposes." He emphasized that Israeli aggression will not weaken Palestinian steadfastness and will not succeed in imposing plans for annexation and displacement. He reaffirmed the determination of the Palestinians to remain on their land and continue to resist the occupation, while placing full responsibility on Israel for the consequences of its actions. Mardawi also urged the international community and human rights organizations to intervene immediately, lift the siege on Hebron and other areas in the West Bank, stop the attacks and rein in the Israeli settlers.