Israel: Authorities continuing response to shooting near synagogue in Jerusalem as of late Jan. 27 /update 1

Event

Police are continuing their response to a shooting incident in Jerusalem's Neve Yaakov neighborhood as of late Jan. 27. At least eight people have been killed and 12 others wounded in the attack. The suspected gunman reported arrived in a vehicle and opened fire on worshippers as they were exiting a synagogue. Security forces shot the assailant dead as he was attempting to flee the scene. No militant group has claimed responsibility for the shooting as of yet.

Increased security and localized transport and business disruptions are likely over the coming hours. Authorities could deploy additional security forces to the streets of Jerusalem and throughout Israel out of an abundance of caution.

Context

Authorities in Israel have bolstered security nationwide in the aftermath of several terror attacks since the early spring of 2022. The series of attacks across the country, including in Be'er Sheva, Hadera, Bnei Brak, Jerusalem, and Tel Aviv, prompted authorities to launch Operation Break the Wave in late March 2022. The operation focuses on the West Bank and aims to stem the wave of terror attacks that have killed at least 30 people and wounded dozens of others. As part of the Break the Way, the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) have conducted regular raids against suspected Palestinian militant cells in Jenin and Nablus in recent weeks. To date, Israeli authorities have arrested more than 2,000 Palestinians, and the nightly raids have resulted in 130 deaths.

Advice

Exercise caution while operating in Israel and the West Bank. Seek updated information on security conditions and possible movement restrictions in East Jerusalem and the West Bank before traveling. Heed the advice of local authorities. Avoid loitering near security checkpoints and main entrances to hotels, restaurants, or government buildings. Do not attempt to bypass security checkpoints without authorities' permission.