Two IDF Soldiers Killed in West Bank Attack, Netanyahu Orders Hebron Lockdown

Two Israeli soldiers, Staff Sergeant Ron Yonatan Reitman, 23, from Ashkelon, and Sergeant Yuval Shai Suilam, 20, from Hod Hasharon, were killed in a shooting attack at the Yehuda Junction near Hebron on Friday. Both soldiers served in the Ari Battalion of the Extraction Brigade. Three other soldiers were wounded, sustaining moderate and light injuries, and were evacuated for medical treatment.

According to the IDF, the two terrorists, identified as Hamuda and Firas Ju'ba, both 27 and from Hebron, were killed in an exchange of fire after they opened fire on soldiers who had set up a roadblock. The IDF estimates that the terrorists were planning a larger attack against civilians, which was thwarted by the soldiers' actions. The Chief of Staff, Lt. Gen. Eyal Zamir, stated that a more severe attack was prevented.

Security forces are investigating the incident, including the possibility that the terrorists were using a vehicle with Israeli license plates and that a foreign photographer may have had prior knowledge of the attack, as dramatic footage from the scene appeared to show professional filming. The motive for the attack is being investigated as nationalistic.

In response to the attack, Prime Minister Netanyahu ordered an immediate lockdown of Hebron and preparations for a full closure of the West Bank. The IDF is continuing its investigation into the circumstances of the attack and the terrorists' route to the scene.