Israel: Security forces kill suspected Tel Aviv shooter in Jaffa early April 8 /update 3

Event

Israeli security forces shot and killed the suspected shooter who opened fire on a bar in Tel Aviv late April 7, leaving at least two people dead and 13 others injured. Security personnel reportedly discovered the suspect hiding near a mosque in Jaffa early April 8, who fired at them before being killed. Authorities said they have identified the suspect as a Palestinian man from the northern West Bank. While the Hamas and Palestinian Islamic Jihad (PIJ) militant organizations have praised the attack, no group immediately claimed responsibility.

Heightened security and lingering transport disruptions are likely in the city center amid the operation over the coming hours, especially in the vicinity of Dizengoff Street and Jaffa.

Context

Authorities in Israel have bolstered security nationwide in the aftermath of three terror attacks that killed 11 people since March 22. The series of attacks - in Be'er Sheva, Hadera, and Bnei Brak - made March 2022 one of the deadliest months in Israel's recent history.

The attacks come ahead of a confluence of religious observances in Israel and the Palestinian Territories. The Muslim month of Ramadan started April 2, while the weeklong Jewish period of Passover begins April 15. Further complicating the security situation is the celebration of Easter among Catholic and Protestant Christians April 17, as well as Orthodox Easter April 24.

Advice

Avoid the affected area. Maintain heightened vigilance if operating in Tel Aviv through early April 8. Prepare for lingering transport disruptions; consider taking alternative routes and means of transport to mitigate the impact. Adhere to all instructions issued by local authorities.