What it is about
Israeli Border Police officers successfully neutralized a Hamas commander and three other terrorists during an arrest operation in the West Bank late Monday. The raid targeted suspects involved in a recent arson attack on the Sde Ephraim settler outpost.
Why it matters
This operation underscores Israel’s commitment to safeguarding its citizens and maintaining security in the region. By targeting those involved in violent acts of terror, Israel reinforces its stance against threats posed by terrorist organizations such as Hamas.
Details of the Incident
The incident occurred in the West Bank town of Kafr Ni’ma, near Ramallah, where Israeli troops were pursuing suspects behind an arson attack the previous night. Undercover Border Police officers and IDF troops located the hideout of the cell responsible for the attack.
The Response
When the suspects attempted to flee in a vehicle and tried to ram their car into the officers, Israeli forces responded by opening fire, ultimately killing all four terrorists. A makeshift sub-machine gun, a military vest, and explosive devices were found in the vehicle.
Identification of the Perpetrators
The Hamas terrorist group confirmed the deaths, identifying one of the killed individuals as Mohammed Jaber Abdo, a commander who had served 20 years in Israeli prison. Other terrorists killed included Mohammed Raslan Abdo, a Qassam Brigades member, and fighters Rushdi Atayeh and Wassim Zidan Abu Adi.
The Arson Attack
Surveillance footage from Sunday night showed an armed suspect setting fire to a trailer used by settlers at the Sde Ephraim outpost. Fortunately, the residents were not home at the time, and there were no injuries reported.
Continued Security Measures
Since October 7, Israeli troops have arrested approximately 4,150 wanted Palestinians across the West Bank, with over 1,750 affiliated with Hamas. This intensified effort highlights Israel’s dedication to neutralizing threats and ensuring the safety of its communities.
Caption for included image: A Palestinian man inspects damage following an Israeli raid in Kafr Ni’ma in the West Bank on June 11, 2024.
This story was first published on timesofisrael.com.