Hebron, August 1, 2024 — The terrorist responsible for the attack near Hebron on Wednesday morning has been apprehended by Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) troops and Shin Bet (Israel Security Agency) forces. The IDF confirmed the arrest on Wednesday evening.
The incident began earlier in the day when a terrorist opened fire on an Israeli vehicle between Kiryat Arba and Beit Einun, seriously wounding a 50-year-old man. The attacker then proceeded to stab the driver in his hand and head. Initial reports indicate that the terrorist fired at the vehicle and then assaulted the driver, according to Ynet.
“The soldiers chased after the terrorist who fled the scene and simultaneously blocked routes in the area,” the IDF stated. The assailant, armed with a handgun, arrived at the bypass route in the Yehuda Brigade area. Upon arrival, he opened fire on an Israeli civilian before exiting his vehicle and stabbing the victim.
IDF soldiers provided immediate medical assistance to the injured man, who was then evacuated to a hospital by Magen David Adom (MDA) for further treatment. MDA EMT Eli Gertner and MDA paramedics Yaira Vangush and Netanel Yamin described the scene: “When we arrived, we saw an Israeli car and a conscious 50-year-old man with stab wounds on his upper body. Two young women who were in the car with him were unharmed.”
The injured man received lifesaving medical treatment on-site before being transported to the hospital in serious condition. Shaare Zedek Hospital later announced that his condition had stabilized and was now considered moderate.
In a subsequent statement, Hamas’s Al-Qassam Brigades claimed responsibility for the attack through their Telegram channel. The terrorist was caught later in the evening by coordinated efforts from IDF troops and Shin Bet forces.
The attack sparked clashes between Hamas supporters and Israeli soldiers in Hebron, following the reported killing of Ismail Haniyeh in Iran. The tensions in the region remain high as security forces continue to monitor the situation.
The IDF reiterated its commitment to protecting Israeli citizens and maintaining security in the area. “Our forces will continue to pursue those who seek to harm innocent civilians and disrupt the peace,” the IDF said in a statement.
This attack underscores the ongoing volatility in the region, with both Israeli and Palestinian communities affected by the violence. The IDF’s swift response and the subsequent capture of the terrorist highlight the challenges faced by security forces in preventing such incidents and ensuring the safety of civilians.
The broader implications of this attack and the subsequent clashes in Hebron are yet to be fully understood, but the incident serves as a stark reminder of the persistent conflict in the area. The IDF and security agencies remain vigilant, prepared to respond to any further threats in the volatile region.