UPDATED 4:03PM IL: An Israeli man who was stabbed in his upper torso and critically injured earlier this afternoon, Monday, 20 Shevat, was pronounced dead upon arrival at Beilinson Hospital in Petah Tikvah.
The terror attack occurred close to 2:30PM local time, when a Palestinian terrorist armed with two knives jumped a man waiting at Ariel Junction, a popular hitch-hiking spot in the Shomron.
An off-duty IDF officer witnessed the attack and pursued the terrorist, striking him with his vehicle. The terrorist got up, prompting the officer to strike him again.
Still, the terrorist got up again and was able to flee towards the nearby PA (Palestinian Authority) village of Kifl Haris. A large group of IDF soldiers are conducting a manhunt at this time to apprehend the terrorist.
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu offered his condolences to the victim’s family. “IDF and Shin Bet forces are in pursuit of the terrorist or terrorists and we will bring them to justice,” he added. “These are difficult moments, but are people come together during such times.”
“I fully trust security forces, which are doing an outstanding job of protecting us,” the prime minister concluded.
Hamas welcomed the attack. “The stabbing attack is proof that the Al-Quds intifada continues,” a message from the group said.
Murdered in the attack was Rabbi Itamar Ben-Gal HY”D, 29, of Har Bracha. The victim was a rebbe, teacher and father of four. Levaya details to follow.
GRAPHIC FOOTAGE OF THE ATTACK:
(YWN – Israel Desk, Jerusalem)
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One Response
Oh my Hashem yikom domoi we need Moshiach now!!! The Tzaros are too much to bear!!