A Palestinian Authority Arab man attempted to carry out a terrorist attack in the city of Rehovot early on Friday afternoon. The man charged Jews on Herzl Street in the city while swinging an ax and yelling “Allah hu akbar” (Allah is great).

Civilians and police immediately jumped on the would-be attacker and managed to overpower him. Two people were lightly wounded in the attack.

Police were on high alert Friday due to fears of rioting or terror attacks following Muslim Friday morning prayers. Three thousand police officers were called to Jerusalem, where violent riots have continued for several days, in order to provide security following Friday prayers on the Temple Mount. The prayers ended peacefully.

Attempts to attack Jews have been frequent in recent days due to incitement in Arab and other media over the ongoing Cast Lead counterterrorism operation in Gaza. Violent riots have been reported throughout the country, as have firebomb and rock attacks on vehicles and buildings.

On Thursday, a terrorist attempted to set fire to a gas station in Mishor Adumim. The terrorist was shot and killed before he could carry out his attack. Two people were lightly wounded.

On Thursday night, a group of Arab men threw two bombs at an apartment complex in Lod that houses several Jewish families. One child suffered severe emotional trauma following the attack. Police are searching for the perpetrators.