Gaza Terrorist Who Murdered Israeli Father of Six Identified as Hamas Operative

Natanel Shokron, a 48-year-old father of six from the settlement of Eli Zohar in the West Bank, was buried late Tuesday night after being murdered in a Palestinian terrorist attack near the settlement of Neve Tzuf in the Benjamin region on the eve of Yom Kippur. Hundreds attended his funeral, held in the Eli Zohar cemetery.

His widow eulogized him, tearfully recounting his final moments and his heroism in warning their son Yoav. She spoke of their 18-year marriage, noting they had postponed celebrations due to security concerns and had not managed to celebrate their anniversary this year. She described Shokron as a devoted family man who deeply respected his parents and maintained close ties with his siblings. She also highlighted his deep involvement in his children's lives, from their education and hobbies to their emotional well-being.

An investigation by the Shin Bet and the IDF revealed the terrorist, identified as a Palestinian from the village of Biddu near Jerusalem, is affiliated with Hamas. While Hamas praised the attack, they did not claim responsibility. The investigation also indicated the terrorist had previously been imprisoned in Israel for attempted attacks. He reportedly acquired an M-16 rifle for tens of thousands of shekels and conducted a reconnaissance mission at the site the day before, noting the presence of many people at the spring.

Following the attack, the terrorist spoke with his wife, boasting about his actions. He then went to a hospital in Ramallah, where he was apprehended by IDF forces from the Duvdevan unit. In response to the attack and with the Sukkot holiday approaching, security forces have increased their alert level in Judea and Samaria due to fears of further attacks.