In a shocking and brazen attack at the Nir Tzvi junction in central Israel, three individuals were wounded in what authorities are describing as a suspected terror attack. The incident unfolded with chilling rapidity, leaving the nation once again grappling with the menace of terrorism on its soil.
The Attack and Immediate Response
Around 1 p.m., chaos erupted at the busy junction adjacent to an Israeli military base. According to the Magen David Adom (MDA) ambulance service, a vehicle, driven with malicious intent, plowed into a group of people at a bus stop. Two of the victims, both in their 20s, sustained serious injuries, while a third individual was lightly hurt. The injured were promptly rushed to the nearby Asaf Harofe Hospital by MDA paramedics, who provided critical on-site medical care before transferring them to the Shamir Medical Center.
⚡Gunfire at the Nir Tzvi junction in central Israel. 3 Israeli soldiers were injured, 2 of them in serious condition and the attacker was neutralized. pic.twitter.com/FSIbKYPcU7
— Current Report (@Currentreport1) July 14, 2024
Police and Security Forces in Action
Police reports indicate that the assailant was “neutralized” at the scene. Initial accounts suggest that the attacker was shot by security forces, who responded swiftly to the emergency. Unverified reports mention that gunfire was heard, possibly during the neutralization of the terrorist.
Eyewitness Accounts and Video Footage
Eyewitnesses and video footage from the scene paint a harrowing picture of the attack. The vehicle, driven with lethal intent, struck two pedestrians before colliding with a bus stop. Security forces can be seen in the footage, neutralizing the terrorist inside the vehicle moments after the attack.
🚨🇮🇱 Nir Tzvi Junction, near Ramla city, central Israel. Suspected terror attack. Two injuries reported, one person is in critical condition.
— Gal.G, Adv 🇮🇱 (@GalG_IL) July 14, 2024
How was YOUR day so far? pic.twitter.com/fs07rjMpWK
Statements from Medical and Emergency Services
Magen David Adom issued a statement shortly after the attack, detailing their rapid response: “At approximately 1 p.m., a report was received at the Magen David Adom 101 call center in the Ayalon region about two men who were hit by a vehicle at the Nir Tzvi junction. MDA paramedics and EMTs are providing medical treatment on the scene.”
MDA Spokesman: At 11:33 MDA Ayalon Dispach Center received reports of two males hit by a car at the Nir Tzvi Junction. MDA EMTs and Paramedics are providing medical treatment to the two, one in severe condition. Updates to follow. pic.twitter.com/QbegVEE7mt
— Magen David Adom (@Mdais) July 14, 2024
United Hatzalah paramedic Aryeh Mendelson, who was among the first responders, described the scene as described by the Jerusalem Post: “According to passers-by, the vehicle hit two pedestrians and collided with a bus stop. With the help of other EMTs, we provided initial treatment at the scene.”
National and International Reactions
The attack has drawn condemnation from across the nation, with leaders and citizens expressing their outrage and calling for heightened security measures. The international community is also watching closely, with many expressing solidarity with Israel in the face of this senseless violence.
🔴Israël: Attentat à la voiture bélier au carrefour de Nir Tzvi, deux blessés dont un grièvement pic.twitter.com/FYBsbmoD6W
— i24NEWS Français (@i24NEWS_FR) July 14, 2024
It was later revealed that a reserve force of the Israel Police's Border Patrol Unit eliminated the terrorist.
A reserve force Border Guard that was passing by saw the events and responded to the incident, neutralizing the terrorist. Central District Commander, Superintendent Avi Biton added information about the terrorist: "The terrorist is a resident of East Jerusalem." According to Police, he was a Palestinian national who holds a Blue Card which is a permanent residency designation that applies to many residents in the eastern part of Israel's capital city.
Conclusion
This suspected terror attack at the Nir Tzvi junction is a stark reminder of the persistent threats facing Israel. As the investigation continues, the nation stands united, determined to thwart terrorism and ensure the safety of its citizens. The bravery of the first responders and the swift action of the security forces underscore the resilience and preparedness of those who stand guard against terror.
