Netanyahu orders tougher West Bank measures after deadly terror attack kills two

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has ordered a series of intensified measures in the West Bank in response to a fatal terror attack that claimed the lives of two Israelis and injured three others. The attack occurred near Tell village, with one victim identified as Master Sergeant (Res.) Benayahu Melet, who was attempting to aid hikers under assault, and the other as Major Yuval Ezra, an Artillery Battery Commander.

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We will act strongly against terrorists and their proxies, and we will not allow terrorism in Judea and Samaria to raise its head.

Netanyahu, alongside Defense Minister Israel Katz and IDF Chief of Staff Lt.-Gen. Eyal Zamir, discussed the response, leading to five key directives. These include demolishing the home of the terrorist responsible for the shooting, implementing more stringent counterterrorism actions in villages identified as "hotbeds of terror," such as weapon collection and permit revocations, and increasing the deployment of IDF forces throughout the West Bank. Additionally, plans are in motion to establish new checkpoints and expedite the regulation and establishment of new farms.

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The attack this morning was grave and painful and, regrettably, exacted a heavy toll in blood.

Netanyahu and Katz stressed that security forces must be empowered to act decisively against terrorism without hindrance. Shin Bet Head David Zini, who assessed the situation at the attack site, described the incident as "grave and painful" and extended condolences to the victims' families. He affirmed the Shin Bet's commitment to working closely with military commanders to apprehend those responsible. Zini also cautioned against any public vigilantism, urging that law enforcement agencies handle the response.

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On behalf of myself and all the men and women of the Shin Bet, I extend condolences to the families and wish the wounded a speedy recovery.