BETHLEHEM, Aug. 22, 2026 (WAFA) — Israeli forces set up military checkpoints in several areas of Bethlehem Governorate on Saturday evening, while colonists carried out provocative patrols in areas east and south of the governorate, according to security sources.

The sources told WAFA that Israeli forces established a checkpoint beneath Beit Ta'mir Bridge, east of Bethlehem, another beneath al-Shawawra Bridge, also to the east, and a third in the Aqabat Hasna area west of the governorate.

Meanwhile, colonists riding quad bikes conducted provocative patrols in the Abu Najim area east of Bethlehem and Khirbet An-Nahla to the south.

Bethlehem Governorate has witnessed continued escalation in Israeli violations, including the establishment of checkpoints and the closure of roads and entrances, alongside increasing colonists attacks and incursions, particularly in rural areas and communities east and south of the governorate.

T.R.