In a shocking incident, three buses exploded in Bat Yam, just south of Tel Aviv, with Israeli police confirming their suspicions of a terrorist attack. Authorities reported that devices on two additional buses failed to detonate, prompting extensive searches for potential suspects.
Immediate Response and Safety Measures
In light of these explosions, Transport Minister Miri Regev has ordered a nationwide halt to all buses, trains, and light rail services to facilitate thorough inspections for explosive devices. This precautionary measure has been widely covered in Israeli media.
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has instructed the Israeli military to initiate an “intensive operation against centres of terrorism” located in the West Bank, as conveyed through a post on X. Fortunately, no casualties have been reported thus far, according to police updates.
Ongoing Investigation
Footage shared on social media captured the harrowing scene, with at least one bus engulfed in flames and a significant plume of smoke billowing into the sky. Police spokesperson Aryeh Doron emphasized that the search for additional explosives is ongoing, urging the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious items.
“Our forces are still scouring the area,” Doron stated during an interview with Channel 12, underscoring the importance of public awareness regarding “every suspected bag or object.”
Doron also noted the possibility that the attackers may have miscalculated the timing of their devices. Local media outlets reported that one of the unexploded bombs weighed approximately 5kg and bore a message stating “Revenge from Tulkarem,” which references a recent Israeli military operation in the West Bank aimed at counter-terrorism.
In response to this incident, Netanyahu has ordered heightened operations in the West Bank and directed the police and the Israel Security Agency to amplify preventative measures against further attacks within Israeli cities. Additionally, Kan public broadcaster has reported that Transport Minister Miri Regev is cutting short her trip to Morocco to return to Israel in the wake of these events.