Man Killed Defending Son in West Galilee Shooting Amid Rising Arab Community Violence
In a violent incident in the West Galilee town of Jadida-Makr on Tuesday evening, 70-year-old Mahmoud Naeimi was fatally shot while trying to protect his son, who was seriously wounded. The attack involved two masked assailants who arrived by car, chased the son into their home, and opened fire. Mahmoud attempted to block their path and shouted at them, but one of the attackers returned and shot him at close range, killing him instantly. The assailants fled in their vehicle, which was later found burning.
Police arrived promptly, launched an investigation, and conducted searches for the suspects. Mahmoud and his son were taken to the Galilee Medical Center in Nahariya, where Mahmoud was pronounced dead after resuscitation efforts, and his son, around 30 years old, underwent surgery with a critical condition. Family members described Mahmoud as a respected and beloved figure in the neighborhood, known for his kindness and regarded as a father figure to the community. The shooting occurred just after the World Cup match between Egypt and Argentina, initially mistaken for celebratory gunfire.
Earlier the same day, in Tamerah, Yasser Abu al-Hija, 34, a barber, was fatally shot while protecting his customers during an attack on his shop by a gunman on an electric bike. Another 29-year-old was seriously injured. Yasser’s father expressed shock at the killing, emphasizing their peaceful nature and that Yasser was not the intended target. Yasser’s son pleaded for an end to the violence, mourning his father’s death.
These killings are part of a broader surge in violence within the Arab community in Israel, with 153 people murdered since the start of the year. The incidents occurred amid a police chief’s visit to the Galilee region, highlighting ongoing security challenges.
Summary: Mahmoud Naeimi was shot dead in Jadida-Makr while defending his son during an attack by masked gunmen, who fled after the shooting. Earlier, Yasser Abu al-Hija was killed protecting customers in Tamerah. Both incidents reflect escalating violence in Israel’s Arab community this year.
