Jerusalem, Israel – Amid escalating tensions in the West Bank as the Muslim holy month of Ramadan nears, a tragic shooting incident took place at a gas station near the settlement of Eli, resulting in the deaths of two Israelis on Thursday. This latest attack comes as a somber reminder of the ongoing conflict in the region, with authorities working swiftly to address the situation.
Upon arriving at the scene, Magen David Adom (MDA) ambulance service found two male victims, one in his 20s and the other aged 57, shot dead near the gas station. The younger victim was found inside a vehicle, while the older man was on the roadway nearby. Despite the quick response, no additional casualties were reported from the shooting.
The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) acted promptly to identify and neutralize the assailant responsible for the attack. Aviad Gazbar, the owner of a nearby hummus restaurant and a former IDF reservist, intervened after hearing the gunshots, successfully stopping the attacker and preventing further harm. Authorities commended his quick thinking and bravery in the face of danger.
In the aftermath of the incident, IDF forces launched a comprehensive search for any possible accomplices, securing the area and conducting thorough investigations. The Shin Bet security agency revealed that the shooter, identified as 31-year-old Muhammad Manasra, was an officer in the Palestinian Authority’s police from the Qalandiya refugee camp, with a history of weapons offenses that led to a previous stint in prison.
As tensions remain high in the region, both Israeli and Palestinian authorities are working together to prevent further violence and maintain security. The incident serves as a grim reminder of the complex challenges faced by both communities in the West Bank, underscoring the need for continued efforts towards peace and stability in the region.