Israel/Palestinian territories: Manhunt in West Bank January 10

Event

On the evening of Tuesday, January 9 (local time), an Israeli civilian was shot and killed in the West Bank near the Jewish settlement of Havat Gilad, itself located near the Palestinian city of Nablus. The man was attacked while driving his car.

A major manhunt is being carried out by Israeli security forces as of January 10 to capture the perpetrator(s). Additional roadblocks have been implemented in the north of the West Bank and all individuals leaving and entering villages surrounding the attack site are subject to security checks.

Context

A spike in tensions in Israel and the Palestinian territories has been observed in the wake of Trump's December 2017 announcement that the US would officially recognize Jerusalem as Israel's capital, a departure from the previous US and international position of neutrality on the status of the city claimed by both Israelis and Palestinians. At least 14 Palestinians have died in incidents of violent unrest that broke out following the announcement.

Advice

Individuals in the area are advised to keep abreast of the situation and adhere to any instructions issued by the local authorities.