Israel: Police kill Palestinian gunman, search for possible accomplices after shooting wounds three on Dizengoff Street in Tel Aviv late March 9 /update 1

Event

Heightened security is likely in central Tel Aviv over the coming hours after police killed a Palestinian gunman who shot and wounded three people in the area late March 9. Authorities described the assault, which took place outside a Dizengoff Street cafe near the intersection with Ben Gurion Street, as an apparent "terror attack." Police have cordoned off the scene of the attack, and Tel Aviv Mayor Ron Huldai has called on protesters denouncing the government's planned judicial overhaul to clear the streets to allow authorities to secure the area. All demonstrations had reportedly been dispersed as of around 23:00.

Tel Aviv authorities have stated that security forces are searching for possible accomplices of the deceased gunman. Unconfirmed reports suggest that a possible second assailant fled the scene of the attack.

Lingering disruptions to transport and business are likely in Tel Aviv, particularly near the site of the assault, over the coming hours.

Context

The March 9 attack comes amid heightened tensions in Israel and the Palestinian Territories and just hours after an Israeli raid killed three members of the Palestinian Islamic Jihad (PIJ) militant group in the northern West Bank village of Jaba.

Several similar assaults have impacted cities across Israel since the early spring of 2022. In response to the attacks, which have left more than 30 people dead and dozens of others wounded, Israeli authorities launched Operation Break the Wave in late March 2022 to stem the violence. The operation focuses on the West Bank, and the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) have conducted regular raids in Jenin and Nablus as part of the effort in recent weeks. Israeli forces have arrested more than 2,500 Palestinians and killed more than 200 others since the operation began; Israel asserts that most of those killed either clashed with the IDF or attacked Israeli forces or civilians.

Advice

Avoid the affected area and maintain heightened vigilance if operating in Tel Aviv until authorities give the all-clear. Consider taking alternative routes to circumvent any related disruptions. Adhere to all instructions issued by local officials.