Israel/Palestinian Terr.: Suspected ramming attack near Abu Dis on June 23

Event

On Tuesday, June 23, a suspected ramming attack took place at the Kiosk (Wadi Nar) checkpoint, on the road between Bethlehem and Abu Dis. A man allegedly targeted a group of Border Police officers, who opened fire, killing the assailant. A police officer was also injured in the attack and is in hospital.

Further attacks are likely in the West Bank, and to a lesser extent in Israel, in the near term. A heightened security presence is to be expected near the Kiosk checkpoint.

Context

US President Donald Trump revealed his peace plan for Israel and Palestine in January 2020, which effectively gave Israel the green light to annex Jewish settlements and the Jordan Valley. The newly elected Israeli government has promised to capitalize on the plan and annex parts of the West Bank in the near future, with a limited initial annexation expected to take place by July 1. Palestinians and members of the international community have criticized the annexation plans and even the US has warned Israel to slow down on its annexation plans. Frequent protests have been held across Palestine since the plan was unveiled, and attacks against Israeli targets have frequently occurred.

Advice

Individuals in Israel and the Palestinian Territories are advised to monitor developments to the situation and adhere to instructions issued by local authorities and their home governments.

Some Western governments advise their citizens against all travel to the West Bank, the Gaza Strip, and areas near the Israeli-Lebanese, Israeli-Syrian, and Israeli-Egyptian borders.