Six Israelis have been killed and eight others injured by Palestinian gunmen in one of the deadliest shooting attacks in Jerusalem in recent years.
Israeli police reported that two assailants arrived in a vehicle and opened fire at a bus stop located at Ramot Junction, on the city's northern outskirts. An off-duty soldier and a civilian responded by returning fire, effectively neutralizing the attackers.
The deceased have been identified as five men aged between 25 and 79, and a 60-year-old woman. Local hospitals have stated that two of the wounded are in serious condition.
No immediate claim of responsibility was made by any armed groups, although Hamas has praised the attack.
During a visit to the scene, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu asserted that Israel is engaged in an ongoing battle against terrorism. He noted that Israeli security forces had successfully thwarted numerous attacks in the West Bank this year, expressing regret that they could not prevent this morning's tragedy.
The Israeli military announced that they are currently encircling Palestinian villages near the West Bank city of Ramallah in order to prevent further violence and bolster security measures.
Eyewitness accounts describe chaos as people fled from the bus shelter amid the gunfire. Dashcam footage revealed the harrowing scene as civilians scrambled for safety.
The attack has drawn condemnation from global leaders, while statements from the Israeli President emphasize the need to confront what he described as an 'absolute evil.' Further, the Palestinian presidency condemned the targeting of civilians, reiterating their stance against all forms of violence.
As tensions rise, this incident comes at a critical juncture, with Israel intensifying military actions in Gaza and ongoing discussions for a potential ceasefire with Hamas.
