IDF Chief of Staff: Large Ammo Cache Found, Foiled Major Attack

IDF Chief of Staff Lt. Gen. Eyal Zamir held an urgent situation assessment Friday with senior security officials following a severe shooting attack at the Judea Junction. The assessment included the commander of the Central Command, the head of the Operations Directorate, the head of Military Intelligence, and other commanders. Details of the attack, which left five people injured, two critically, were presented. According to the data, the terrorists were eliminated by the deputy battalion commander of the Ari Battalion and the company commander, who rushed to the scene immediately after the report. Zamir revealed a disturbing finding: "This was a severe attack. The swift action of the soldiers prevented an even more serious attack and further harm to civilians and security forces." He explained that a large quantity of ammunition, intended for a broader attack, was found in the vehicle used by the terrorists. The attack occurred on Highway 35 near the Tarkumiya checkpoint, where terrorists opened fire on travelers. Following a brief pursuit, IDF forces engaged the terrorists, who continued firing at security personnel, and eliminated them. During the assessment, Zamir approved the Central Command's preparations for a full lockdown of Hebron and surrounding villages. He also ordered intensified efforts for further arrests and strengthened intelligence gathering in the area. Zamir further instructed preparations for additional troop reinforcements to the Central Command as needed to prevent further attacks and enhance security. MDA reported that paramedics, with the assistance of an IDF medical unit, treated five casualties: two in critical condition evacuated to Shaare Zedek and Hadassah Ein Kerem hospitals, one in moderate condition, and two in light condition. The IDF spokesperson confirmed the elimination of two terrorists and that IDF forces are continuing searches in the area.