Two Terrorists Stopped at Checkpoint After Planning Major Attack in Israel

Two terrorists from Hebron, aged 27, were killed by Israeli forces on Friday morning after attempting to carry out a large-scale attack in central Israel. Security assessments indicate the attackers intended to drive along Route 35, which connects Hebron to central Israel, with a large quantity of ammunition found in their vehicle. They were intercepted at a temporary checkpoint established by IDF soldiers from the Home Front Command near the Judean Junction. During the ensuing exchange of fire, which lasted over 20 minutes, the terrorists opened fire on the soldiers with an M4 rifle and a pistol. They exited their vehicle and continued shooting at the troops. The rapid response of the soldiers at the checkpoint prevented a more severe attack on Israeli civilians and security forces. Five people were injured in the incident, two critically. The Chief of Staff, Lt. Gen. Eyal Zamir, who held a situation assessment following the attack, praised the soldiers' actions and noted the extensive ammunition found in the terrorists' car, intended for a larger-scale attack. He also authorized a full closure of Hebron and surrounding villages, increased arrest operations, and enhanced intelligence efforts, along with reinforcing forces in the Central Command. The commander of the Ari Battalion, Lt. Col. L., stated his soldiers acted professionally and decisively to neutralize the threat. Following the attack, a full closure was imposed on Hebron and surrounding villages, including Halhul, to prevent copycat attacks, and the homes of the terrorists and other suspects were being mapped. IDF and Border Police forces are conducting offensive operations in Hebron and surrounding villages.