Post by : Naveen Mittal

Israel Shuts Jordan Crossing After Deadly Attack

Allenby Bridge closed after violence

Israel has closed the Allenby Bridge crossing, a major route between the West Bank and Jordan, after a deadly attack shook the region. Officials said the border point will remain shut until further notice. This sudden move has created a wave of concern, as the crossing is not only a trade lifeline but also the only way for millions of Palestinians in the West Bank to connect with Jordan and beyond.

What is the Allenby Bridge crossing?

The Allenby Bridge is one of the most important land crossings in the Middle East. It links the West Bank to Jordan and serves as the main gate for Palestinians who want to travel abroad. Unlike Israelis, who have access to international airports, Palestinians must use this bridge to leave the region. It is also used for trade, with goods moving between Jordan and Israel through this route. Closing it means blocking a vital path for both people and products.

Other border points also affected

The Israeli Airports Authority confirmed that not only the Allenby Bridge but also two other crossings were affected.

• Jordan River crossing (north): Fully shut down.

• Rabin crossing (south): Still open, but only for workers.

This partial closure has slowed down movement across the border and increased tension in the region.

No group claims responsibility yet

So far, no group has taken responsibility for the deadly attack that led to the closure. Authorities are investigating who carried it out. Attacks in this sensitive area are rare but highly impactful because of the bridge’s importance for international travel and trade.

Impact on Palestinians

For more than 3 million Palestinians living in the West Bank, the Allenby Bridge is their only door to the outside world. With airports inside Israel closed to them, they rely on this route to reach Jordan, from where they can fly to other countries. Families who were planning to travel for education, medical treatment, or work abroad are now stuck. Businesses that depend on importing and exporting goods through this bridge will also face losses.

Regional importance

The Allenby Bridge is not just about Palestinians. It also serves as a symbol of regional trade and cooperation. Jordan depends on it for smooth economic ties with Israel and the Palestinian territories. Any closure affects thousands of Jordanians and international visitors as well.

Rising tension

This closure adds more stress to an already tense situation in the region. Israel and Jordan share a long border, but relations have often faced challenges, especially during times of conflict involving Palestinians. Shutting down crossings can further harm diplomatic ties and create hardships for ordinary people.

What happens next?

Officials have not given any timeline for reopening the crossing. Security forces are on high alert, and more checks are being carried out at the remaining open points. Analysts say the closure could last for days or even weeks, depending on the investigation and security situation.

For now, the bridge remains silent, leaving thousands stranded and worried about how long they will have to wait before normal life resumes.

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