Two Israeli soldiers and two Palestinian gunmen killed in West Bank shooting

Two Israeli soldiers and two Palestinian gunmen were killed in a shooting at a military checkpoint near Hebron in the occupied West Bank.

The Israeli army said three other Israelis were wounded, while emergency responders reported five people injured.

The army said the gunmen were killed after an exchange of fire lasting about 20 minutes.

Israel ordered Hebron cordoned off and the West Bank closed, though the sources describe preparations for a full closure rather than confirming it had taken effect.

The shooting comes as Israel prepares for an election next Tuesday, in which Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is seeking another term.

Hamas praised the gunmen but did not claim responsibility, and the sources say there is no evidence linking the Palestinian Authority to the attack.

An investigation is underway, and Israel also reported carrying out raids and arrests across the West Bank.