What it is about
Six people were killed and nine others wounded in a brutal terror attack in Jaffa, where assailants used both firearms and knives to target innocent civilians. This attack on Tuesday night marks one of the most heinous and deadly acts of terrorism in recent years.
Why it matters
This attack underscores the ongoing threat Israel faces from terrorist organizations exploiting tensions and conflict in the region. The attackers, identified as Palestinian residents from Hebron, launched a coordinated onslaught both on the Tel Aviv light rail and Jerusalem Street in Jaffa.
The Details
The perpetrators of this heinous crime, Mehmed Khalaf Saher Rajab and Hassan Mohammed Hassan Tamimi, attacked with a rifle and a knife. A swift response from a municipal security officer and armed civilians fortunately neutralized the attackers, preventing further bloodshed, as confirmed by Israel Police.
Nine others, injured in the attack, were promptly evacuated to Wolfson Medical Center in Holon and Ichilov Medical Center in Tel Aviv for medical care.
<#h2>Tensions and Context
This devastating terror attack comes amid heightened tensions in Israel. The Israel Defense Forces have recently commenced a ground operation into Lebanon targeting the Hezbollah terror group operating along the border. Likewise, volatile regional dynamics have been inflamed by Iran’s aggressive actions.
Response
Israel Police Commissioner visited the scene and discussed the severity of the incident without revealing intelligence of any prior threats. Eyewitnesses spoke emotionally about the “non-stop gunfire” and visualize the chaos that unravelled during the attack.
In the wake of the massacre, prominent Israeli officials including Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich advocated for severe repercussions against the terrorists’ families, calling for their exile to Gaza and the demolition of their homes.
Conclusion
This vile attack against civilians highlights the relentless security challenges Israel faces while underscoring the need for steadfast measures in protecting its citizens. Mere minutes before the attack, Iran launched a massive missile attack on Israel, which illustrates the multipronged threats concurrent with ongoing military operations to neutralize these existential dangers.
This story was first published on timesofisrael.com.