IDF soldiers who shot a terrorist near Hevron on Monday morning prevented what could have been a major attack, an initial investigation revealed Monday evening. The terrorist had infiltrated the Judean Desert and was apparently planning to carry out a shooting or other attack.
The incident in question took place as soldiers conducted routine operations in the Hevron region. The terrorist opened fire on the patrol, and soldiers responded, killing him.
Investigators now believe the terrorist had not originally intended to attack soldiers, but rather opened fire as a last resort when he was surprised by their presence. The attacker was armed with a Kalashnikov rifle, a handgun and four magazines of bullets.
Commanders praised the soldiers' quick response to the attack.
Following the shooting, IDF soldiers entered the terrorist's home village of Bnei Nayim and arrested his brother, according to Arab villagers. Soldiers also confiscated the terrorist's personal computer, they said.
The most recent shooting attack carried out by Palestinian Authority terrorists took place just two weeks ago, outside the town of Kochav Hashachar. One man was shot in the head and badly wounded in that attack.