Israel shooting attacks leave 1 dead, 5 injured, suspect killed

At least one person was killed and five others wounded in a series of shooting attacks across central Israel on Sunday, prompting a large-scale security response and a manhunt that ended with one suspected attacker being shot dead, authorities confirmed.

Israel’s emergency service, Magen David Adom, said the fatality was a man in his mid-30s who died after sustaining gunshot wounds at the scene. Medics also evacuated five injured individuals to nearby hospitals, including two in serious condition and three in moderate condition, all suffering penetrating injuries.

The attacks reportedly occurred near multiple locations, including the towns of Tzur Natan and Tzur Yitzhak, causing panic in communities close to central Israel and the occupied West Bank. Emergency responders rushed to the area as reports of gunfire emerged from several points.

Security forces later located a suspected vehicle linked to the attacks near Kokhav Yair, where one suspect was killed during an exchange with Israeli forces. The Israeli military confirmed that another possible attacker was still being searched for as operations continued in the surrounding region.

The incident triggered an immediate high-level security response. Officials said Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu held a situational assessment and is being kept updated as the investigation unfolds.

The Prime Minister’s office described the situation as “serious and ongoing,” with security agencies working to determine whether the attacks were coordinated or carried out independently. Roadblocks were set up in nearby areas as forces combed through roads, forests, and settlements.

Far-right National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir issued a strongly worded statement following the attacks, calling for severe punishment if any suspect is captured alive. He referenced recently approved legislation in Israel that allows for the death penalty in certain terrorism-related cases tried in military courts.

The violence has once again highlighted the fragile security situation in areas bordering the occupied West Bank, where sporadic attacks and military operations have continued to escalate tensions.

Medical teams described chaotic scenes at the impact sites, with multiple casualties arriving within minutes of each other. Ambulances were seen moving rapidly between locations as responders worked under pressure to stabilise the injured.

Authorities have not yet released details about the identities or motives of the attackers, and investigations are ongoing. Officials say they are examining surveillance footage, vehicle records, and witness accounts to piece together the sequence of events.

As security forces maintain a heightened presence in the region, residents have been urged to remain alert while the search for any remaining suspects continues. The incident adds to growing concerns over rising violence in and around central Israel and the West Bank corridor.