Seven people were tragically killed in a violent shooting and knifing incident in Tel Aviv, as confirmed by local police. Numerous others sustained injuries, some of them critical, when a gunman unleashed gunfire at bystanders in the Jaffa district.
The horrific assault commenced inside a rail carriage and progressed onto the platform, according to a police statement. Graphic footage shared online depicted lifeless bodies lying on the street following the attack.
Authorities confirmed that the attackers were “neutralized” by bystanders and labeled the incident as a “terror” attack. The identities of the assailants have yet to be disclosed. Initial reports from some Israeli media indicated a death toll of eight, but it remains unclear if this number included the attackers.
The shooting occurred just before an Iranian missile assault on Israel began, prompting chaos as police and emergency services took cover amidst air raid sirens and the sounds of missile interceptions.
Witnesses recounted their experiences, including one individual who stated, “People were on the ground, and they told me to bend down.” This person noted seeing the terrorist before security forces intervened.
Another witness initially thought the gunshots were fireworks before realizing the dire situation. They recounted, “There were many gunshots. We dropped to the floor, and people were crying. I saw someone bleeding on the ground.” A local shop owner described the panic, stating they quickly shut their windows upon hearing cries of “terror attack.”
Eyewitness accounts highlighted the swift response of volunteer medics who rushed to aid the wounded as they tended to victims in both the synagogue and on the streets. The situation remains tense as investigations continue.
