Tragedy Strikes Near Eli Settlement: Two Israelis Killed in Terror Shooting Attack
In a shocking incident that unfolded near the settlement of Eli on Thursday, two Israelis lost their lives in a terror shooting attack. The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) swiftly responded, neutralizing two of the three terrorists responsible for the heinous act. The third terrorist sought refuge inside a Hummus Eliyahu branch but was later apprehended by security forces without having taken any hostages.
The attack took place at around 5:08 p.m. when a report was received about gunshot wounds on Route 60 at a gas station near the entrance to Eli. Magen David Adom (MDA) spokesperson confirmed that two critically injured individuals received medical treatment at the scene but tragically succumbed to their wounds. The victims were identified as a man in his 20s and another individual approximately 57 years old. Meanwhile, it was suspected that one of the terrorists had managed to flee.
Initially, Army radio reported that two terrorists had been killed at the scene, and a manhunt was underway to locate the third assailant. However, it was later announced that there were no more suspected infiltrations, and residents were deemed safe to leave their homes. Despite the immediate threat being neutralized, IDF forces continued to scan the area for any additional threats.
One of the most remarkable aspects of this tragic event was the heroic actions of Aviad Gazber, the owner of the Hummus Eliyahu branch where the third terrorist sought cover. Gazber, who happened to be present and armed at the scene, bravely neutralized one of the terrorists. Reports suggest that Gazber is a soldier in reserves who had been on leave in Eli before returning to duty.
The settlement of Eli’s spokesperson highlighted the significance of this attack, stating that it occurred at the same gas station where four individuals were murdered just a year ago. This chilling coincidence underscores the ongoing security challenges faced by Israeli communities in the region.
Further investigations revealed that one of the terrorists responsible for the attack was Mohammed Manasreh, a Palestinian Authority police officer. This revelation raises serious concerns about the infiltration of extremist elements within the very institutions entrusted with maintaining law and order.
Unsurprisingly, politicians wasted no time in responding to the attack. Public Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir called for a departure from inaction, emphasizing that recent concessions regarding the Temple Mount and the evacuation of Jews in Binyamin had seemingly emboldened the perpetrators. Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich echoed these sentiments, demanding a change in approach and an end to the conceptzia, or the idea that inaction will bring peace, in the West Bank.
MK Dan Illouz stressed the need for a strong response to such acts of terror, advocating for exacting a heavy price from the enemy. He emphasized that complacency only invites more violence and that restoring deterrence requires not only eliminating the terrorists and their accomplices but also deepening Israel’s roots in the region through settlement expansion and steps towards sovereignty.
Ariel Elmaleh, chairman of the Eli settlement, expressed his deep concern over the recurring attacks in the area. He called for increased security measures and acknowledged that the signs of such an attack were evident. Shlomo Na’aman, head of the Gush Etzion Regional Council, echoed these sentiments, emphasizing that the Palestinian Authority is waging a war against Israel. He urged vigorous action to eliminate all threats throughout the West Bank and stressed that there should be no distinction between the Palestinian Authority and Hamas terrorists.
As Israel mourns the loss of two innocent lives, it is evident that a comprehensive and resolute approach is needed to combat terrorism and ensure the safety of its citizens. The attack near Eli serves as a stark reminder of the ongoing challenges faced by Israeli communities and the urgent need for unwavering security measures.
