Israel: Stabbing attack in Ariel, West Bank, Nov. 15

Event

A knife-wielding assailant killed two people and wounded four others in several stabbing attacks near the Ariel industrial zone, Nov. 15. The attack began as the assailant stabbed a security guard at the entrance to Ariel industrial zone. The assailant then stabbed three individuals at the nearby "Ten" gas station before fleeing in a vehicle and crashing it into several cars and ramming at least one person on Highway 5 near the city. The attacker attempted to flee the car crash before being shot and killed by police.

Increased security and localized transport disruptions are likely near the impacted area over the coming hours. Additional stabbing attacks are possible in Ariel amid prevailing heightened tensions.

Context

Israeli security forces regularly foil attempted stabbing, shooting, and car-ramming incidents 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 the scene of the incident due to likely increased security and localized traffic disruptions. Heed the instructions of security personnel.