Two IDF Soldiers Killed in West Bank Shooting Attack

Two Israel Defense Forces (IDF) soldiers, Sergeant Major Ron Yonatan Reutman, 23, from Ashkelon, and Sergeant Yuval Shai Suilam, 20, from Hod Hasharon, were killed in a shooting attack at the Gush Etzion junction in the West Bank. Both soldiers served in the Ari Battalion of the Commando Brigade. Three other soldiers were wounded, two moderately and one lightly. The IDF estimates that the attackers, identified as Hamuda and Firas Ju'ba, 27, from Hebron, had planned a larger attack against civilians, which was thwarted by the soldiers' actions. The two assailants were killed by security forces. There is a suspicion that a foreign photographer may have had prior knowledge of the attack. Following the incident, Prime Minister Netanyahu ordered an immediate lockdown of Hebron and preparations for a full closure of the West Bank. The Chief of Staff, Zamir, stated at a situation assessment that the soldiers' quick response prevented a more severe attack. Security forces are investigating whether this was an isolated cell or part of a larger terrorist infrastructure. Road 35 in the area was temporarily closed. In a separate incident, Jordanian authorities reported that two gunmen opened fire at a church in the city of Karak, killing at least seven people and wounding 28. King Abdullah of Jordan vowed to punish those responsible for the terror attack.