Israel Seizes Over 1.5 Million Shekels From West Bank , Dozens Injured

Ramallah, West Bank — August 27, 2025  Israeli security forces carried out a rare daytime raid in the Ramallah on Tuesday, targeting a currency exchange office accused of transferring money to Hamas. Troops seized around 1.5 million shekels (about $447,000) in various currencies, including US dollars, Jordanian dinars, and euros.

According to Israeli police, border police and army units jointly stormed the business, arresting several suspects on charges of financing militant activities. Officials confirmed that at least five to nine individuals were taken into custody, along with documents and evidence.

Dozens of Injuries Reported

The Palestinian Red Crescent reported that at least 27 Palestinians were injured during the raid. Victims included those hit by live gunfire, rubber bullets, and shrapnel, while others suffered from tear gas inhalation.

Witnesses described a chaotic scene as heavily armed Israeli forces moved through Al-Manara Square, one of Ramallah’s busiest areas, sparking confrontations with residents who threw stones at troops.

Part of Wider Crackdown

The operation is part of Israel’s ongoing campaign against terror financing in the West Bank, which has seen repeated raids on currency exchange offices in cities such as Nablus, Hebron, Bethlehem, and Jenin. Similar crackdowns took place in December 2023 and earlier this year.

Israeli officials said the funds seized were intended to support Hamas operations, linking them directly to the ongoing Gaza war that erupted after the militant group’s October 2023 attack on Israel.

Rising West Bank Tensions

Since the start of the Gaza conflict, Israeli raids across the West Bank have sharply increased. According to Palestinian figures, at least 972 Palestinians have been killed in the West Bank, including militants and civilians. In the same period, Israeli authorities say 36 Israelis—both soldiers and civilians—have died in attacks or clashes.

The raid in central Ramallah is particularly significant because the city serves as the administrative hub of the Palestinian Authority, making such incursions rare and politically sensitive.

Analysts warn that targeting financial institutions in Palestinian administrative centers may further destabilize the West Bank, worsening tensions between Israeli forces and the local population while undermining fragile economic structures.