IDF Soldier Summoned to Testify as Indictments Loom in Susya Weapon Theft Case

The investigation into the assault on an Israeli soldier and the theft of his weapon near Susya in the southern Hebron Hills is nearing completion. The soldier, approximately 25 years old and on leave while herding sheep, was attacked on the evening of July 25 by several Palestinians who threw stones and struck him on the head, subsequently stealing his personal firearm. He was moderately injured and received medical treatment. Shortly after the incident, IDF forces recovered the weapon near the scene and returned it. A joint manhunt involving the IDF, the Judea and Samaria Police District, and the Shin Bet security service led to the arrest of four Palestinian suspects. Two were initially detained, a third was arrested during an operation in the town of Yatta by the elite Duvdevan Unit, and the fourth surrendered to the Civil Administration after ongoing intelligence efforts. All four suspects are currently under investigation. At the request of the military prosecution, the soldier has been summoned for additional testimony as the case moves toward formal indictments against the suspects, according to Israeli security officials.