Netanyahu Holds Security Meeting After Deadly West Bank Attack Killing Two Israelis

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu convened a security consultation on Friday following a deadly attack in the West Bank's Samaria region, where two Israelis were killed and three others wounded. The details of one of the victims have not yet been released. The meeting included Defense Minister Israel Katz, IDF Chief of Staff Lieutenant General Eyal Zamir, Shin Bet head David Zini, National Security Council chief Shmuel Ben Ezra, and other senior military officials.

The attack occurred during an uncoordinated tour when Palestinians assaulted the group of hikers. One of the victims was identified as Benyahu Malt, 32, a resident of the settlement Havat Gilad, a member of the local security team, and responsible for agriculture there. Malt had gone to assist the attacked group.

The IDF stated it possesses intelligence on the incident and the perpetrators and will take action against them. In response, the military has significantly reinforced forces in the area, deploying a reconnaissance company from the Nahal Brigade, two companies from the General Staff's Battalion, and two companies from the Commando School. These five companies join other recently added units, including two permanently stationed battalions and a commando battalion deployed last weekend to bolster security in the region.