29 Mar 2022 | 08:05 PM UTC
Israel: Security forces on high alert after shooting attack kills five people in Bnei Brak late March 29 /update 1
Increased security likely after shooting attack kills five people in Bnei Brak, Israel, late March 29; police shoot and kill assailant.
Event
Israeli security forces will almost certainly maintain a heightened security presence in Bnei Brak and elsewhere in Israel following a shooting attack that killed five people in the city late March 29. The shooting was initially reported at 20:00 on HaShnaim Street; one person was killed inside their vehicle, while two others were shot dead on a nearby sidewalk. The assailant shot and killed another person on Herzl Street, and a police officer whom the gunman shot later died from his wounds. No group immediately claimed responsibility for the attack.
Israeli police shot and killed the assailant, whom authorities have identified as a 27-year-old Palestinian from the West Bank, on Jabotinsky Street. The shooter was previously arrested for belonging to a militant group in 2015. Police have arrested two people on suspicion of assisting the attacker.
Authorities have urged the public to avoid the impacted areas, while the neighboring city of Ramat Gan has advised people to stay at home. Localized transport and business disruptions are likely in the affected areas of Bnei Brak over the coming hours. Demonstrations in response to the attack are possible over the coming hours and days.
Context
The March 29 attack in Bnei Brak marks the third deadly attack in Israel since March 22; collectively, the three attacks have resulted in the deaths of 11 Israeli citizens. Four people were killed and two others wounded in a stabbing and vehicle-ramming attack at a gas station and outdoor shopping center in Be'er Sheva March 22. The assailant in Be'er Sheva had been imprisoned after confessing his intention to join the Islamic State (IS) in 2015.
Additionally, two gunmen killed two police officers and wounded several others in Hadera March 27. Security forces shot and killed the assailants. IS later claimed responsibility for the attack.
Advice
Avoid affected areas and exercise heightened vigilance if operating in Bnei Brak or Ramat Gan. Consider taking alternative routes to circumvent related disruptions. Adhere to all instructions issued by local authorities.
