A man was killed and three others wounded in what the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) and emergency medical services confirm was a combined vehicle‑ramming and stabbing terrorist attack at the busy Gush Etzion Junction south of Jerusalem on Tuesday afternoon.
According to Magen David Adom (MDA), medics and paramedics found a man, approximately in his 30s, dead at the scene after sustaining stab wounds. Three additional victims — a woman in her 40s in serious condition, a man around 30, and a 15‑year‑old boy in moderate condition — were evacuated to Jerusalem hospitals. All three suffered stab injuries in the attack.
Attack scenario and response
The IDF stated soldiers eliminated two terrorists at the scene. Explosive materials were found in the vehicle used by the attackers, and bomb‑disposal units were brought in to secure the area. Route 60 at Gush Etzion Junction was temporarily closed while forces set up roadblocks and conducted security sweeps.
United Hatzalah first responders described chaotic scenes. EMT Eitan Saar said he heard gunfire upon arrival and began triage operations. He confirmed the death of the man and assisted the three wounded.
Strategic significance of the site
Gush Etzion Junction, the main intersection serving the Etzion bloc of Jewish communities between Jerusalem and Bethlehem, has a history of terror attacks and serves as a strategic hub. The junction has repeatedly been targeted by vehicles, stabbings and explosions over the years.
Context and implications
This attack comes amid heightened tensions in the biblical heartland (the so-called “West Bank”), with Israeli forces engaged in multiple fronts and Palestinian violence remaining elevated. Analysts say the discovery of explosives suggests the attack was intended to inflict greater damage or trigger a larger incident. The involvement of a vehicle ramming followed by stabbing is a pattern seen in recent terror incidents.
As Israel remains under multi‑front pressure and tensions in Judea and Samaria persist, the attack underscores the ongoing threat to civilians in high‑traffic areas and the need for vigilance in a volatile environment.
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