Israeli Police Shoot Dead Man Who Fired at Neighbors in West Bank Village

Rami Shalabi, 26, from the village of Sulam near Afula, was shot and killed by Israeli police on Tuesday after allegedly firing at a neighbor's home and then at pursuing officers. His brother, a doctor, was moderately injured while attempting to provide medical aid during the incident. Police and Border Police forces responded to a family dispute in Sulam, where they observed Shalabi shooting at a residence. When he fled on foot, officers chased him as he continued firing, prompting them to return fire and neutralize him. Shalabi was taken to Emek Medical Center in Afula, where he was pronounced dead.

Authorities are investigating the circumstances of the brother's injury, including whether he was alongside Shalabi during the exchange of fire. Earlier on the same day, a 74-year-old woman from the village was seriously wounded by gunfire at her home’s entrance, and initial investigations suggest a connection between that shooting and Shalabi’s actions. Following the shooting, police arrested five suspects suspected of involvement or aiding the incident. Residents expressed regret over the violent escalation of the dispute, emphasizing the need for restraint and police presence to prevent further violence.

Shalabi had married just a month prior and was previously arrested last month after weapons were found near his home. Northern District Police Commander Deputy Commissioner Meir Eliyahu stated that officers acted professionally and decisively to neutralize a direct threat to residents and themselves. He urged feuding families to end the cycle of violence before more tragedies occur. Since the start of the week, Northern District police and Border Police have confiscated over ten weapons and arrested suspects for illegal possession.