Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu condemned a terrorist attack at the West Bank-Jordan border crossing that resulted in the deaths of three Israeli civilians. He referred to Iran’s “axis of evil” and highlighted the ongoing threat of terrorism faced by Israel. The Israeli military reported that a gunman opened fire on Israeli security forces at the Allenby Bridge Crossing and was killed in a shootout. Hamas official Sami Abu Zuhri celebrated the attack and linked it to Israel’s offensive in Gaza. Netanyahu emphasized the strength of the Israeli state and its defense forces in resisting such attacks.
The attack marked the first incident of its kind along the West Bank-Jordan border crossing since Hamas terrorists killed many civilians and took hostages in a previous attack on southern Israel. Netanyahu expressed determination to eliminate Hamas, return all hostages, and ensure Israel’s security. He cited a document published by the German newspaper Bild that outlined Hamas’ plan to sow division within Israel through psychological warfare and political pressure. Netanyahu stressed the importance of unity among Israeli citizens to thwart the efforts of Hamas and other extremist groups.
Netanyahu praised the resilience and sacrifice of Israeli security forces, emphasizing the need for unity in the face of external threats. He acknowledged the difficult circumstances faced by the Israeli people and assured them of the government’s commitment to achieving the goals of the war against terrorism. The prime minister highlighted the critical role of security in Gaza to prevent Hamas from smuggling hostages into Iran. He reiterated the government’s determination to deal with the threats posed by terrorist organizations and ensure the safety of Israeli residents in the north and south.
The Allenby crossing, also known as the King Hussein Bridge, is a vital entry point for Palestinians, tourists, and cargo shipments, with very few security incidents in the past. The crossing was closed following the attack, and Israel announced the closure of its land crossings with Jordan near Beit Shean and Eilat. Israel and Jordan have a peace treaty dating back to 1994, and both countries are working together to investigate the incident and ensure the safety of their citizens. The attack has raised concerns about the ongoing threat of terrorism in the region and the need for continued vigilance and cooperation between Israel and its allies.
Netanyahu emphasized the importance of remaining united in the face of external threats and reiterated Israel’s commitment to defending its citizens against terrorism. He highlighted the sacrifices made by Israeli security forces and expressed confidence in their ability to protect the country from future attacks. The incident at the Allenby Bridge Crossing serves as a reminder of the ongoing challenges faced by Israel in maintaining security and stability in the region. The government’s response to the attack reflects its determination to confront terrorism and protect the lives of its citizens, while also seeking to maintain peace and cooperation with neighboring countries like Jordan.
