Israeli Police Thwart Stabbing Attack in Lod Following Citizen Tip-Off

In Lod, Israel, a stabbing attack was prevented after a quick police response to a citizen's call to emergency services. On Wednesday, a woman alerted the police hotline about a suspicious man sitting near a school holding a knife. Security footage released by Israeli Police shows a Yamam unit officer receiving the report and searching the area. The suspect, Sami Ahmad Jassous, 28, then charged at the officer with a knife. The officer ordered him to stop, but Jassous attempted to stab him. A struggle ensued, during which the officer pushed the attacker, engaged in close combat, and fired shots until the suspect was neutralized. No security personnel were injured.

Police identified Jassous as a resident of Lod with a disability and confirmed he fled when first ordered to stop. Authorities, including the Shin Bet, are investigating the incident as a terror attack, focusing on the possibility that the attacker intended to harm security forces. Central District Police Commander Amir Cohen stated the investigation continues under the terror attack framework and affirmed his support for the officer who faced life-threatening danger. The police response was initiated within minutes of the citizen's call, highlighting the importance of public vigilance.

The investigation remains ongoing, with further joint assessments planned between police and security services to clarify all circumstances surrounding the event.