Video snippet of medics tending to a victim of a terror attack in Holon

In a heart-wrenching and violent episode, the Israeli city of Holon, near Tel Aviv, was rocked by a brutal stabbing attack that claimed the lives of two innocent civilians and left others gravely injured. The horrifying incident, carried out by a Palestinian terrorist, has once again underscored the persistent threat of terrorism facing Israel.

The victims of this heinous attack were a 66-year-old woman and an approximately 80-year-old man, both mercilessly slain by the attacker. Medical officials confirmed that the attack also left two other individuals injured, one of whom is in critical condition.

The Attacker and His Motives

The assailant, identified as Amar Razak Kamel Odeh, a 35-year-old Palestinian from the village of Salfit in Samaria, did not possess an Israeli residence permit. He was neutralized at the scene by police and later pronounced dead upon arrival at Shamir-Assaf Harofeh hospital in Be’er Ya’akov. The swift action of the police prevented further carnage, but the damage had already been done.

A City in Shock

A significant police presence quickly descended upon the scene, conducting extensive searches with helicopters and other means to ensure there were no additional threats. The thorough and immediate response by the security forces was crucial in preventing further bloodshed.

Leaders Respond

Israel’s Minister for State Security, Itamar Ben-Gvir, visited the site of the attack and passionately reiterated his call for Israelis to arm themselves. “I share in the grief of the families and wish a full recovery to the wounded. Our war is not only against Iran, but here in the streets. This is exactly why we armed the people of Israel. More than 150,000 licenses for weapons in the last eight months,” he declared, emphasizing the life-saving potential of armed citizens.

Celebrations Among Militant Groups

Palestinian militant groups, including the Popular Resistance Committees and the Al-Qassam Brigades, shamefully celebrated the attack, posting messages of support on their social media channels. This abhorrent reaction highlights the stark contrast between those who seek peace and those who glorify violence.

The Scene of the Attack

Channel 12 reported that the stabbings occurred at a gas station on Moshe Dayan Street and at a nearby street, with Magen David Adom (MDA) confirming that the attacks took place at three separate locations, approximately 500 meters apart. A senior MDA medic provided a chilling account of the aftermath:

“At the entrance to the Egged [bus] parking lot on Dan Shomron Street in the city, we saw a 26-year-old man, conscious, with stab wounds, in moderate condition. In a nearby park was a 70-year-old, unconscious woman with no pulse and not breathing. We performed CPR and had to determine her death. Another man who was near her was seriously injured. Another injured man, a 70-year-old man, was on Moshe Dayan Street, and was taken to the hospital in critical condition while CPR was being performed.”

Ongoing Investigations

Israel Police spokesman Eli Levy emphasized the gravity of the situation, stating, “The terrorist went on a killing spree. The police are working to rule out the presence of another terrorist and accomplices. We are in the first minutes after the attack. It is important for me to emphasize that we have not ruled out the possibility that there are additional terrorists in the area, we are conducting many scans.”

Calls for Unity and Strength

National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir and Israeli Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich both issued strong statements in the wake of the attack. Ben-Gvir praised the quick police reaction and once again called on Israeli citizens to arm themselves, stressing, “it saves lives.” Smotrich, in a powerful tweet, reminded the nation of the ongoing battle between good and evil, expressing his condolences and calling for unwavering resolve in the face of such brutality.

National Unity Party leader Benny Gantz also voiced his sorrow and support, tweeting, “Hard morning. I would like to send my heartfelt condolences to the families of [those] murdered in the attack in Holon, to pray for the recovery of all the wounded and to strengthen the members of the security forces and our soldiers who operate at all borders and beyond them—to prevent terrorism and to strike at its perpetrators and their agents.”

A Nation Mourns

As Israel mourns the loss of innocent lives, the nation stands united in its determination to combat terrorism and protect its citizens. The attack in Holon is a stark reminder of the threats that persist, but it also underscores the resilience and strength of the Israeli people. The call for vigilance, unity, and preparedness has never been more critical as Israel continues to face the scourge of terrorism head-on.

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