Binyamin Regional Council Head Vows Resilience After West Bank Attack

Israel Gantz, head of the Binyamin Regional Council and chairman of the Yesha Council, visited the scene of a severe attack near the settlement of Neve Tzuf in the Binyamin region on Sunday. Gantz expressed outrage, stating that a terrorist armed with an M16 rifle opened fire on civilians who had gathered at the Ein Riy spring near the settlement to immerse themselves ahead of Yom Kippur.

Despite the difficult circumstances, Gantz conveyed a message of strength and determination. "This is a very difficult event, but we are strong and will get through it," he said. He added, "No one will drive us out of here." He expressed optimism that the site would be filled with visitors during the Sukkot holiday.

The attack occurred when the terrorist arrived by vehicle near the spring, exited with a long rifle, and fired at civilians present. A man in his 30s was critically injured and evacuated by medical teams performing resuscitation efforts. Following the shooting, the terrorist fled the scene on foot, prompting an urgent situation assessment and a high alert for security forces.

Gantz confirmed that IDF, police, Shin Bet, and Border Police forces are actively pursuing the fugitive terrorist, who is believed to still be in the area. "All forces are in pursuit of the terrorist who is still here in the area. This is a very difficult event, but we are strong and will get through it," he stated.