Israeli Forces Thwart Terror Attack Near Kedumim, Gunman Killed

Israeli forces prevented a terror attack at the "Sha'ar Ha'oz" farm, a new southern expansion of the Kedumim settlement, on Sunday night. Assailants from the village of Hajeh attempted to attack the location, first by throwing stones at a security drone and successfully downing it. An Israel Defense Forces (IDF) unit responding to the scene encountered violent rioting, including stone-throwing directed at the soldiers. The IDF forces returned fire, resulting in the death of one assailant who posed a threat to the unit, and injuries to several others.

Kedumim officials refuted claims circulating from Palestinian sources and echoed by some media outlets, alleging that Israeli civilians entered homes in Hajeh and vandalized them. According to Kedumim, these claims are false and the incident was a thwarted terror attempt thanks to security forces' actions.

Kedumim Mayor Ouziel Vatik stated, "Sha'ar Ha'oz is an important and significant security envelope for Kedumim, and last night's event proved it. The location is very strategic, and it's no coincidence that terrorists tried to set it ablaze last Thursday and harm its residents."

Vatik added that he arrived at the farm during the night and investigated the incident with the brigade commander and Kedumim's security officer. He pledged to continue strengthening Kedumim's defenses and creating protective perimeters in the area to prevent terrorists from carrying out attacks on the settlement and its access roads. Vatik expressed gratitude to the army commanders and forces on the ground for their continuous efforts in safeguarding Israeli civilians.