Israeli police have killed three Palestinians who allegedly planned to carry out a “major attack or a massacre in Israel.” The incident occurred at a checkpoint near Jerusalem, on a road connecting the city with the occupied West Bank. Kobi Shabtai, the national police chief, stated that the group was shot dead after opening fire on Israeli forces when questioned. Six members of the security forces were injured, with one in critical condition. The suspects were found to be carrying automatic rifles, handguns, ammunition, magazines, and axes.
It was revealed by Israel’s domestic security service, Shin Bet, that at least two of the gunmen belonged to the Hamas terrorist group. However, Hamas has not yet commented on the incident. Palestinian officials have also refrained from making any immediate statements.
Tensions in the region have been escalating since an attack by Hamas on October 7th, resulting in the death of approximately 1,200 people and the hostage-taking of around 240 individuals, including children. In response, Israel launched an air, ground, and sea offensive in the Hamas-controlled Gaza Strip. The offensive has claimed the lives of over 11,500 people, with approximately 40% of the casualties being children, according to Gaza’s Hamas-run health ministry.
In retaliation for last month’s attack, Israel has pledged to eliminate Hamas.
