Israel Responds to Hebron Shooting with Raids, Demolitions, and Closures
Translated & summarized from Alarab by baba
Following a shooting attack near Hebron that wounded six Israelis, Israeli forces killed the two perpetrators and discovered a large cache of ammunition. Prime Minister Netanyahu ordered a cordon around Hebron and preparations for a West Bank closure, while Finance Minister Smotrich ordered the demolition of Palestinian buildings near the site. The Ibrahimi Mosque in Hebron was also closed by Israeli forces.
The story in 5 lines · by baba
- Israeli forces killed two Palestinian gunmen and found significant ammunition after a shooting attack near Hebron wounded six Israelis.
- Prime Minister Netanyahu ordered a security cordon around Hebron and prepared for a West Bank closure.
- Finance Minister Smotrich ordered the demolition of Palestinian buildings near the attack site.
- The Ibrahimi Mosque in Hebron was closed to worshippers by Israeli forces.
- At least four relatives of the attackers were reportedly arrested.
Following a shooting attack near Hebron in the West Bank on Friday, Israeli forces killed the two perpetrators and discovered a large quantity of ammunition in their vehicle, which the Israeli military believes prevented a wider attack. Initial reports indicated five Israelis were wounded, with some reports later raising the number to six, including two in critical condition. The injured were transported to Jerusalem hospitals for treatment.
The attackers, armed with an M16 rifle and a pistol, arrived in a stolen car with Israeli license plates and opened fire on an Israeli checkpoint near the Yehuda junction. A firefight ensued for over 20 minutes, with the assailants reportedly re-arming from their vehicle and continuing the attack. Reinforcements arrived, and after a prolonged engagement, the two gunmen were killed.
Israeli military chief of staff Eyal Zamir praised the soldiers' rapid response, stating it thwarted a more severe attack. He noted the substantial ammunition found suggested plans for a larger operation targeting civilians and main roads. An investigation is ongoing to determine if the attackers acted independently or were directed by an external entity.
In response, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu ordered an immediate security cordon around Hebron and preparations for a full closure of the West Bank. Israeli forces increased their presence, established checkpoints, conducted vehicle searches, and raided areas in and around Hebron, as well as in Jenin, Nablus, and Jericho, to prevent further attacks. At least four relatives of the attackers were reportedly arrested, and their homes were being surveyed.
Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich ordered the demolition of Palestinian buildings near the attack site, labeling them illegal. He stated the demolitions would commence within an hour and continue through Saturday. Additionally, Israeli forces closed the Ibrahimi Mosque in Hebron to worshippers and ordered its staff to leave.
Mentioned
