A shooting attack in Israel left one person dead and five others injured after a gunman opened fire at several locations on Sunday, according to Israeli authorities.
Emergency responders from the organization Magen David Adom said a man in his mid-30s died from gunshot wounds sustained during the attack.
Five other people were injured. Among them, two victims were reported to be in serious condition, while three suffered moderate injuries. Medical teams rushed the wounded to nearby hospitals for treatment.
Suspect Killed After Brief Chase
Israeli police identified the attacker as an Arab citizen of Israel. Security forces later tracked him down near the town of Kokhav Yair, which is located close to the occupied West Bank.
Authorities said officers engaged the suspect after a short pursuit and shot him dead. Police also recovered the firearm allegedly used in the attack along with the vehicle involved.
Police Commissioner Danny Levy told reporters that the suspect had a previous criminal record.
Second Suspect Arrested During Investigation
Meanwhile, investigators arrested another man in connection with the incident.
According to police, the individual made statements that suggested possible involvement in the attack. Officers also claimed that he attempted to assault police personnel during the arrest.
Authorities have not yet released further details about the second suspect’s exact role. However, the investigation remains ongoing as security agencies continue gathering evidence.
Netanyahu Condemns the Attack
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu strongly condemned the shooting.
Speaking during a cabinet meeting, Netanyahu described the incident as a terrorist attack. He stated that the attacker managed to kill one Israeli citizen and wound several others before security forces eliminated him.
The prime minister praised the rapid response by law enforcement and security personnel who stopped the suspect.
Ben-Gvir Calls for Tougher Measures
Following the attack, Israel’s National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir renewed his support for harsh penalties against individuals involved in deadly attacks.
Ben-Gvir said that laws related to the death penalty for terrorists should also apply to Arab citizens of Israel. He added that if the suspect had been captured alive, he would have supported seeking the death penalty.
His comments have already sparked debate because they touch on sensitive issues involving security, citizenship, and ethnic relations within Israel.
Security Measures Increased in the West Bank
After the shooting, Israeli security forces increased precautions in nearby areas.
According to Palestinian sources and the official Palestinian news agency WAFA, Israeli forces closed two checkpoints leading into the city of Tulkarem.
In addition, temporary checkpoints were established at entrances to Qalqilya. Authorities have not said how long these restrictions will remain in place.
Tensions Remain High
The incident comes at a time of ongoing security concerns across Israel and the West Bank. Attacks, military operations, and security crackdowns have continued to increase tensions in the region.
Officials are still investigating the motive behind the shooting and whether any additional individuals were involved. As the investigation continues, security forces remain on alert in surrounding areas.