Israel/Palestinian Terr.: Palestinian kills Israeli soldier in West Bank March 17 /update 1

Event

A knife- and gun-wielding Palestinian man killed one Israeli and wounded two others in the West Bank on Sunday, March 17. The assailant reportedly stabbed an Israeli soldier near Ariel, killing him and stealing his assault rifle; he then opened fire on passing vehicles, wounding one civilian while halting and stealing a vehicle. The attacker then reportedly drove away in the direction of the Palestinian town of Bruqin, shooting and wounding another Israeli soldier along the way near Gitai Avishar junction. No affiliation with a militant group was immediately reported and it was unclear if the assailant acted alone. Israeli troops have reportedly launched a manhunt around Bruqin.

A heightened security presence is to be expected around Ariel and Bruqin over the coming hours.

Context

Palestinian attacks targeting Israeli security forces are not uncommon in the West Bank.

Advice

Individuals in the West Bank are advised to remain vigilant for suspicious behavior, avoid crowded areas, anticipate a heightened security presence and disruptions due to ongoing security operations, and adhere to all instructions issued by the local authorities.