Two IDF Soldiers Killed Foiling Major Terror Attack Near Hebron

Two Israel Defense Forces (IDF) soldiers, Staff Sergeant Ron Yona Reitman, 23, and Sergeant Yuval Shai Suilem, 20, were killed in a firefight with two terrorists near the Yehuda Junction, south of Hebron. The IDF estimates that the soldiers were part of a force that prevented a large-scale attack planned against Israeli civilians. Three other soldiers were wounded in the exchange of fire.

Initial investigations suggest the two terrorists were en route to attack civilians when they encountered the IDF unit. The soldiers had descended from a pillbox position to set up a roadblock. A prolonged firefight ensued, resulting in the neutralization of the two terrorists and the deaths of Reitman and Suilem. The IDF believes the soldiers' alertness and actions prevented a much more severe attack.

Lieutenant General Eyal Zamir, the Chief of Staff, visited the scene and held a situation assessment with Major General Avi Bluth, the commander of the Central Command. Zamir stated that while the outcome was painful, the soldiers' actions averted a grave attack on Israeli civilians. He vowed to pursue all involved and emphasized the IDF's readiness and high alert status across all fronts, while noting the need for discretion, particularly in light of the upcoming sensitive week.

Major General Bluth described the soldiers as a "bulletproof vest" for Israeli citizens, stating that their bravery prevented a serious attack at a heavy cost. He announced a significant counter-terrorism operation alongside a lockdown on Hebron and Halhul, promising to bring all terrorists to justice and destroy terror infrastructure.

The terrorists, identified as Firas Ju'ba and another individual, were from Hebron. Security forces are investigating the possibility that they arrived in a vehicle with Israeli license plates. The motive for the attack is being classified as nationalistic. There was no prior warning of the terrorists' arrival at the junction, though security measures in Judea and Samaria are extensive.

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu held a security assessment following the incident and ordered an immediate lockdown on Hebron, with preparations for a full closure of Judea and Samaria. The IDF is continuing its investigation into the terrorists' original target and whether they were part of a larger terror network.