IDF Boosts West Bank Security After Deadly Terror Attack Near Nofei Tzuf

The Israeli military is reinforcing its forces in the West Bank following a deadly shooting attack near the settlement of Nofei Tzuf, just days before the Sukkot holiday. The attack, which occurred near the Ein Ri'a spring, claimed the life of Natanel Shkaron, a father of six from the settlement of Ali Zahav. Shkaron was at the spring with his teenage son when the assailant opened fire. He was critically wounded and later pronounced dead at Beilinson Hospital in Petah Tikva.

After an extensive manhunt, security forces, including the Duvdevan Unit, apprehended the suspected attacker, Qadri Samara, 37, near Ramallah. Samara, identified as a Hamas operative from the village of Biddu, reportedly fired from a vehicle with Palestinian license plates before fleeing the scene. He was found hiding in a hospital near the attack site.

The Samaria Regional Council confirmed Shkaron's identity, noting he was a "high-tech man" and a devoted husband and father. His wife, Dr. Me'irav Shkaron, is a lecturer at Ariel University. The council and local community are providing support to the bereaved family.

In response to the attack, the IDF Chief of Staff, Lt. Gen. Eyal Zamir, ordered increased forces, a lockdown, and the demolition of the attacker's home. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stated that "no terrorist is immune" and vowed to hold accountable those who aided the attacker, directing the IDF and Shin Bet to intensify operations in the West Bank. Defense Minister Yoav Gallant also extended condolences and praised the security forces for their efforts.

President Isaac Herzog condemned the "murderous terror attack" and reiterated that "terror will not break us." The heightened security measures are in place to prevent further attacks during the upcoming Sukkot holiday.