Jerusalem, Sept 5 – At least four people were killed and 15 others injured in a deadly East Jerusalem shooting on Thursday, according to Israeli police. Authorities described the attackers as “terrorists” and confirmed they were neutralised following an exchange of gunfire.
The Attack
The incident unfolded in East Jerusalem during the early hours of the morning when armed assailants opened fire on civilians near a busy intersection. Panic spread quickly as passersby sought shelter while security forces rushed to the scene.
Witnesses reported chaos and confusion, with vehicles abandoned on the streets and emergency services scrambling to assist the wounded. Within minutes, Israeli police and paramilitary forces engaged the attackers and brought the situation under control.
Police Statement
Israeli police released a statement saying, “Terrorists armed with automatic weapons opened fire on civilians in East Jerusalem. Security forces acted swiftly and neutralised the attackers. The situation is now under control.”
Officials also confirmed that multiple weapons were recovered from the assailants, and investigations are underway to determine if the attackers were linked to larger militant groups.
Casualties and Injuries
Medical teams reported that four people succumbed to injuries at the scene, while at least 15 others were rushed to nearby hospitals. Some of the injured are in critical condition. Hospitals across Jerusalem have been placed on high alert, with doctors and nurses mobilised for emergency care.
Rising Tensions in Jerusalem
The East Jerusalem shooting comes amid escalating tensions in the region. In recent months, there have been frequent clashes between Israeli security forces and Palestinian groups, with the city remaining a flashpoint in the broader Israeli-Palestinian conflict.
Analysts suggest that Thursday’s attack could further inflame tensions, with fears of retaliation and a cycle of violence in the days ahead.
International Reactions
The U.S. State Department condemned the attack, calling it an act of terrorism and reaffirming support for Israel’s right to defend its citizens. The European Union also expressed concern, urging restraint on both sides to prevent further escalation.
Meanwhile, Palestinian groups have yet to issue an official statement, though some militant factions are suspected of being involved.
Security Measures Tightened
Following the attack, Israeli authorities heightened security across Jerusalem, deploying additional checkpoints and patrols. Police have urged citizens to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity.
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu convened a security meeting with defense and intelligence officials, pledging a “strong response” to those behind the violence. “Terrorists will not succeed in breaking our resolve. Israel will act decisively to protect its people,” Netanyahu said.
Impact on Daily Life
The shooting has caused widespread fear among residents, with schools in parts of East Jerusalem suspending classes for the day. Public transportation was briefly halted but later resumed under heavy security presence.
Local businesses also shut down temporarily, as people mourned the victims and waited for further updates from authorities.
Experts’ View
Security analysts warn that the East Jerusalem shooting highlights the growing risks of lone-wolf or small-cell attacks, which are harder to predict and prevent. “This attack shows how volatile the situation in Jerusalem remains. Without meaningful political dialogue, such incidents are likely to recur,” said a Middle East conflict researcher.
Conclusion
The East Jerusalem shooting, which left four people dead and 15 injured, is another grim reminder of the fragile peace in the region. While Israeli police acted swiftly to neutralise the attackers, the incident underscores the urgent need for renewed security measures and diplomatic efforts to prevent further bloodshed.
As the city grapples with the aftermath, families mourn their loved ones, and residents brace for possible repercussions in the already tense landscape of East Jerusalem.