Ra’anana, Israel, became the scene of terror as two Palestinian assailants unleashed a rampage, resulting in the death of 79-year-old Edna Bluestein and injuring at least 17 people, including several school children. The attackers, later identified as Mahmoud Zidat, 44, and Ahmed Zidat, 24, carried out a series of violent acts, hijacking vehicles and deliberately targeting civilians in the heart of the city.
The Rampage Unfolds, Motive Revealed
The assailants, illegally present in Ra’anana, initiated their attack just as schools were dismissing students. Hijacking three vehicles, they conducted a series of violent assaults, running over innocent children and fatally injuring an older woman. Eyewitnesses reported the harrowing scenes, with one witness describing the attackers stabbing people near a mall before stealing a car and running over more victims.
The Israeli police swiftly responded to the unfolding terror, with central district police officers arresting the attackers after a high-speed chase and crash. Central District Police Chief Avi Biton labeled the incident as a “very grave terror attack,” highlighting the coordinated nature of the assaults. The attackers, identified as cousins, had been living in Ra’anana, and one worked illegally at a local car wash.
Following their capture, one of the attackers reportedly confessed to the Shin Bet intelligence agency, revealing a chilling motive. The assailants claimed that, inspired by the conflict in Gaza, they initially intended to stab Jews but decided to maximize harm by running over as many people as possible, explicitly targeting Jews in their violent spree.
READ ALSO: 43-year-old homeless woman Arrested in El Cajon Arson Case
Victims and Condemnations
Magen David Adom emergency services provided updates on the victims’ conditions, with several in serious condition, including a 16-year-old boy. The injured were transported to various hospitals, with Hamas later claiming responsibility for the attacks. U.S. Ambassador to Israel Jack Lew condemned the “brutal terrorist attacks,” expressing condolences to the victim’s family and wishing a speedy recovery to the wounded.
The international community reacted strongly to the heinous act of terror. U.S. Ambassador Jack Lew’s condemnation echoed sentiments worldwide. Meanwhile, Hamas justified the attacks as a response to perceived injustices, urging revolutionary youth to escalate the struggle until the establishment of Palestine in place of Israel. The incident underscores the ongoing challenges in the region and the urgent need for diplomatic solutions.