Security forces are on high alert in the wake of the most recent Arab attack on Israeli citizens. Their vigilance paid off on Monday when their quick response foiled a potential tragedy. 

The knife used in the attack. (Photo: Gershon Elinson/Flash90)

An Arab woman who attempted to stab Israeli civilians at the Gush Etzion junction on Monday was shot and wounded by IDF soldiers, thus averting a potentially lethal attack.

The terrorist, in her early 20s, reportedly approached a group of Israeli citizens and began to stab them, lightly wounding one man. Soldiers at the site responded quickly and shot the terrorist, seriously injuring her.

There were initial fears that she was carrying an explosive device on her body. A sapper was called to the scene, and the object on her body was revealed to be another knife.

Eyal Zahavi, a Magen David Adom (MDA) paramedic who arrived at the scene, told the Tazpit News Agency:

“The terror victim was treated on site, with minor wounds. He didn’t need to be hospitalized. The terrorist had gunshot wounds all along her upper body, and MDA together with army paramedics treated her on site. She was transported to Hadassah Ein Kerem hospital for further treatment at the intensive care unit.”

David Pearl, Head of the Gush Etzion Council, stated: “Unfortunately, they are again trying to kill us. We are glad that the incident ended with only a lightly wounded victim and a seriously wounded terrorist. I thank the IDF solders for their rapid response.”

He called on the Minister of Defense to restore security to the residents of Gush Etzion. “Gush Etzion’s residents are strong and will continue on with their routine. We will do all we can so that life on Gush Etzion will prosper,” assured Pearl.

IDF Thwarts Another Arab Attack

Earlier Monday morning, IDF soldiers arrested an Arab at the Tapuach Junction after they discovered he was carrying a knife on his body, ostensibly for an attack.

An IDF lookout spotted the man as he was wearing a hood, which aroused their suspicion. The soldiers called on him to halt, but only after they threatened him with their weapons did he stop. He was taken for further questioning.

Terror Strikes Continue

The wounded terrorist evacuated by Israeli medical teams. (Photo: Gershon Elinson/Flash90)

Gush Etzion has been the site of several attacks in the past months.

Dalia Lemkus, 26, from Tekoa in Gush Etzion, was murdered in November by an Arab terrorist who ran her over with his car and then stabbed her. The terrorist also managed to stab and wound two more Israelis before being shot by a security guard.

A few days earlier, three soldiers were wounded by an Arab terrorist who ran his car into them.

Security forces have been on high alert, and this morning’s foiled attack is a testament to their vigilance.

The IDF’s brave soldiers are directly responsible for defending Israel’s citizens against any terror threat, in the north or south, by land, sea or air.

To read more about these magnificent defenders of the State of Israel, download our free eBook: Israel Defense Forces 24/7.

Author: United with Israel Staff