Palestinian Man with Israeli Citizenship Kills One, Wounds Five in Shooting Rampage
A Palestinian man holding Israeli citizenship carried out a shooting spree across several towns in central Israel on Sunday. The attack resulted in one fatality and five injuries, as confirmed by Israeli police who later killed the gunman.
Initial reports indicated that multiple attackers might have crossed from the West Bank, reminiscent of Hamas-led attacks in October 2023. However, authorities clarified it was a lone shooter, with an accomplice arrested later.
The first shooting occurred near Kokhav Yair, close to the West Bank border, followed by incidents in Tsur Natan and Tsur Yitzak towns, as well as Sal’it settlement within the West Bank.
Police apprehended the second suspect after a violent struggle where he attempted to stab officers with a glass bottle. No injuries were reported during this altercation.
Magen David Adom reported six injured initially but later revised it to five. The 35-year-old victim from Kokhav Yair was pronounced dead at the scene, while others suffered varying degrees of injury.
Following the incident, regional council head Oshrit Gani Gonen expressed surprise over the attackers being Israeli citizens, given their anticipation for West Bank infiltrations since Oct. 7.
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu commended security forces’ swift response and public security minister Itamar Ben-Gvir released a video showing the apprehended attacker, vowing to eliminate terrorists.
Ben-Gvir’s recent videos have faced criticism for potentially exploiting situations like the October 7 attacks for political gain ahead of elections.
The heightened tensions in Israel and the West Bank since the Gaza war began in October 2023 remain a significant concern.