Israeli police say security forces confiscated about 1.5 million shekels ($447,000) during a raid on a currency exchange office in central Ramallah yesterday, accusing the business of funnelling money to Hamas.
The police spokesman, Dean Elsdunne said the operation, carried out with border police and the military, led to the arrest of nine suspects and the seizure of large sums in US dollars, euros, Jordanian dinars, and other currencies.
The raid, which left dozens of Palestinians wounded according to the Red Crescent, is unusual for taking place in Ramallah, the seat of the Palestinian Authority.
Israel has stepped up military operations across the West Bank since the Gaza war began in October 2023, with raids frequently targeting currency exchanges.
Palestinian figures say at least 972 people, including civilians, have been killed in the West Bank since the conflict erupted, while Israeli authorities report 36 deaths among their citizens and security forces over the same period.