Two Terrorists Killed in Shootout Near Hebron; PM Vows Action

Two people were killed and three wounded in a shooting attack near Hebron on Friday. The attackers, identified as Hamoda and Aal Muhammad Gouaba, both 27, from Hebron, arrived in a vehicle, stopped at a concealed location, exited, and opened fire on security forces and civilians. Moshe Botvia, the security officer of Kiryat Arba, who was among the first responders, described the intense 20-minute firefight. He stated that the terrorists were firing from a dominant position, and it was only after additional forces arrived, including the deputy commander of the sector, that they were neutralized. Botvia praised the security forces for preventing a larger disaster by blocking the terrorists from advancing further along the road, which is often used by residents and school buses.

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu visited the scene and vowed to take decisive action against terrorism in the area. He announced plans to demolish the building from which the terrorists emerged and implement an aggressive model used in refugee camps, involving house-to-house searches and the destruction of terror infrastructure. Netanyahu also stated that a full closure has been imposed on Hebron and Halhul, and that the IDF is preparing for a large-scale operation in Judea and Samaria, the likes of which have not been seen since the Six-Day War. He reiterated his commitment to expanding settlements in the West Bank, announcing the establishment of over 100 new settlements and farms.

In response to the attack, security forces have imposed a full closure on Hebron and Halhul, established numerous roadblocks, and deployed elite units. The investigation into the incident is ongoing, with a focus on the use of an illegal "mashthuba" vehicle, which is a vehicle taken off the road but still used illegally. The police have assigned the investigation to the special investigations unit with Shin Bet assistance. The attackers, who were related and lived near each other, were found with a large amount of ammunition, suggesting they planned a significant attack. Authorities are examining whether they were acting on external orders or on their own initiative. The military is also investigating the circumstances of an AFP photographer who documented the event.

Following the attack, Minister of Finance Bezalel Smotrich announced the demolition of illegal structures in the attack area and the establishment of four new farms. The commander of the Judea and Samaria District police, Moshe Finchi, emphasized the need to eradicate the phenomenon of illegal vehicle use and ordered increased patrols and vehicle inspections.