Maj Gen Avi Bluth, head of the Israeli military's Central Command, stated that Israeli forces are employing lethal force in the West Bank at levels not seen since the 1967 Six-Day War, according to The Guardian. Bluth confirmed that 42 Palestinian stone-throwers were fatally shot in the West Bank last year, saying, "If someone comes to kill you, kill them first is the norm."

Bluth acknowledged that soldiers are permitted to shoot approaching Palestinians in the legs near the 'seam line' but said those crossing without authorization are treated as potential terrorists. He stated that Israeli operations are deliberately turning Palestinian villages into conflict zones, adding, "There are a lot of 'limping monuments' in Palestinian villages of those who tried to [cross the barrier], so there is a price being paid."

The commander admitted to discriminatory enforcement, noting that Jewish individuals who approach the barrier are not shot due to potential social consequences, a stance criticized by Haaretz as creating an "apartheid-like" system. The comments come as Israel has suspended over 100,000 Palestinian work permits following the October 7 attacks and the subsequent war in Gaza.

According to the UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs, more than 1,080 Palestinians have been killed in the West Bank since October 7, 2023, including at least 235 children. The agency reported 35 Palestinian fatalities in the region since the beginning of 2026.

The Israeli Defense Forces have not issued a formal statement on Bluth's remarks. The UN and human rights groups are expected to seek clarification on use-of-force policies in the occupied territories during upcoming briefings.