Two Palestinians Killed in Hebron Attack, Three Injured

Three people were injured and two died in a terror attack near Hebron on Friday morning. Following a firefight lasting over 20 minutes, Israeli soldiers killed two Palestinian terrorists who reportedly had ties to Hamas. Security forces discovered a significant amount of ammunition and explosives in their vehicle. The army is also investigating whether an AFP news agency photographer present at the scene may have had prior knowledge of the attack.

The two attackers, identified as Hamouda Wael Mohammed Jaaba and Firas Samir Mohammed Jaaba, were 27-year-old cousins from Hebron, each with two children. Security authorities believe they intended to carry out a larger attack, but their plan changed upon arrival in the area. They exited their vehicle and opened fire, later retrieving more weapons and ammunition from their car before continuing the assault. The terrorists used automatic weapons and sought cover during the exchange of fire. Additional soldiers arrived, and Israeli forces eventually surrounded and killed the assailants.

Israeli Chief of Staff Eyal Zamir was briefed on the incident and praised the soldiers' swift response, stating it prevented further casualties. He approved measures including a complete lockdown of Hebron and surrounding areas, intensified security operations, and the potential deployment of additional troops. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu ordered an immediate lockdown of Hebron and preparation for a broader closure of the West Bank, with checkpoints and increased vehicle searches implemented on major roads and extended to other cities like Jenin, Nablus, and Jericho.

The army is also mapping the attackers' homes and investigating their personal circles due to their familial ties and proximity. The attack occurred amid heightened tensions, with the upcoming Israeli elections and the olive harvest season contributing to security concerns. The army anticipates further attacks and has deployed additional units, including paratroopers and reconnaissance soldiers.

The American Ambassador to Israel, Mike Huckabee, commented that the attack could have been a "more catastrophic event" had the IDF not reacted so quickly, questioning in a social media post whether the incident would receive the same media coverage as the arrest of olive pickers for not announcing their activities.