Police and the ISA (Israel Security Agency – Shin Bet) have no doubt the erev Shabbos terror attack in a pub on Dizengoff Street in Tel Aviv carried out by Nashat Melhem, 28, of the northern community of Arara, was planned out to the smallest detail. Police raided the community and Nashat’s home, confiscating a computer and some of his personal effects.

His father, a volunteer policeman, was quick to condemn the attack as were other family members and community leaders. They expressed outrage of Nashat’s actions and conveyed their condolences to the families of the dead and wounded. They statements were echoed by Arab Members of Knesset.

Police arrested Judat Melhem, a brother of the terrorist, who is believed to have assisted Nashat. The Haifa Magistrate Court on motzei Shabbos extended his remains for five days as the investigation continues under a gag order, banning publication of details in the case.

Family members explain that Nashat is a “disturbed individual”. They stress his actions are unacceptable, decrying the shooting attack in the strongest terms.

Police feel that Nashat remains at large, in the area of Dizengoff, and he will not hesitate to shoot innocent people again if he has a chance to do so. The manhunt for him continues and security in Tel Aviv remains extremely high in preparation for schools to open on Sunday morning for a new week.

Photo: Judat Melhem, the terrorist’s brother

(YWN – Israel Desk, Jerusalem / Photo: Medabrim Tikshoret)