In a devastating incident on Thursday in Jerusalem, two individuals were killed, and eight others were wounded, with five in serious condition, following a shooting near a bus stop on the western side of the city.
Israeli police reported that the two suspects involved in the attack were neutralized on the spot.
Details of the Attack
According to Jerusalem police chief Doron Torgeman, the assailants, armed with an M-16 assault rifle and a pistol, arrived in a car and opened fire.
The incident occurred during the morning rush hour, near a bus stop without entry checkpoints, resulting in a crowded area and a higher number of casualties.
Fatalities and Immediate Response
A 24-year-old woman and a man in his 70s lost their lives in the attack. Disturbing footage from the scene circulated on social media, depicting armed police surrounding lifeless bodies.
Other clips showed panicked crowds fleeing gunshots and vehicles speeding away from the chaotic scene.
Timely Truce and Ongoing Tensions
The shooting took place just hours after a truce, temporarily halting hostilities between Hamas and Israel in the Gaza Strip, was extended for a seventh day.
The incident adds a layer of complexity to the already tense situation in the region.
Past Incidents and Police Investigation
Notably, a year ago, the same bus stop was targeted in a bombing that claimed the life of a 16-year-old boy and injured 18 others. Authorities revealed that they believe both attackers in the recent shooting are from east Jerusalem.
International Reactions and Condemnation
US ambassador to Israel Jack Lew condemned the attack, describing it as an “abhorrent terrorist attack in Jerusalem.” The international community expresses concern over the recurring violence in the region.
Recent Attacks and Continuing Unrest
This shooting follows a recent attack on an Israeli soldier two weeks ago at a checkpoint on the eastern side of Jerusalem.
The assailants were shot dead by Israeli police, and the incident was claimed by the armed wing of Hamas, further contributing to the ongoing unrest in the area.
