Israel: Security forces on high alert after shooting attack kills two people and wounds wounds at least 10 others in Hadera late March 27 /update 1

Event

Israeli security forces will almost certainly maintain a heightened security presence in Hadera and elsewhere in Israel following a shooting attack late March 27. Two gunmen killed two people and wounded at least 10 others, including two police officers. Security forces shot dead the assailants. Authorities believe the perpetrators, who are Arab-Israeli citizens, may be linked to Islamic State (IS). One of the attackers had previously been arrested for attempting to join the militant group. However, the exact motive behind the attack remains unclear.

The attack transpires as Israel is hosting a significant summit in the Negev with the US, Bahrain, Morocco, Egypt, and the United Arab Emirates. The shooting also comes after a stabbing and vehicle ramming attack killed four people and wounded two others in Be'er Sheva in southern Israel, March 22.

Lingering heightened security measures and localized transport disruptions are likely in Hadera over the coming hours.

Context

The March 22 attack in Be'er Sheva marked the third stabbing incident in Israel over the past week and was among the deadliest such assaults in the country in years. Israeli security forces regularly foil attempted stabbing, shooting, and vehicle-ramming incidents in Jerusalem and throughout the West Bank. The threat of such incidents increases during periods of heightened tensions surrounding controversial political developments or anniversaries marking key events.

Advice

Avoid affected areas in Hadera and exercise heightened vigilance. Consider taking alternative routes to circumvent related disruptions. Adhere to all instructions issued by local authorities.