On the morning of January 6, 2025, a horrific shooting occurred near the Palestinian village of Al-Funduq, located close to the Kedumim settlement in northern Samaria. According to the Magen David Adom (MDA) emergency medical service, three individuals were killed and eight others wounded in the assault. The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) confirmed that terrorists had opened fire on a civilian bus and vehicles traveling on Route 55.
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Casualties and Medical Response
The victims of the attack included two women in their 60s and a man in his 40s. MDA paramedics confirmed their deaths at the scene. The individuals identified as the deceased were Master Sgt. Elad Yaakov Winkelstein, a police officer, and two sisters-in-law, Rachel Cohen and Aliza Raiz. In addition to the fatalities, a 63-year-old man, the bus driver, was reported in serious condition, while seven bus passengers suffered various injuries, including moderate and minor injuries.
The injured were transported to Meir Hospital in Kfar Saba and Beilinson Hospital in Petach Tikvah for further treatment. According to IDF reports, the security forces immediately launched a search for the perpetrators, setting up roadblocks and encircling surrounding towns to locate the gunmen.
Attack Details and Security Measures
Initial reports suggested that two gunmen in a white vehicle were responsible for the shooting, targeting the bus and additional vehicles. The IDF later confirmed that three terrorists carried out the attack. In response, the Israeli security forces intensified their efforts, involving both ground and aerial operations to track down the assailants.
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu expressed condolences to the families of the victims and vowed to bring the attackers to justice. “We will find the abhorrent murderers and settle accounts with them and with all those who aided them,” Netanyahu stated.
National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir emphasized the interconnectedness of terrorism in the region, including the ongoing threats from Gaza and Iran. Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich added that decisive action must be taken to eliminate terrorism in Judea and Samaria.
Local Leadership Response
Yossi Dagan, head of the Samaria Regional Council, called for a reevaluation of Israel’s approach to the Palestinian Authority (PA). Dagan urged the government and IDF leadership to take stronger measures, including confiscating illegal weapons and confronting PA leader Mahmoud Abbas, whom he holds responsible for orchestrating terrorism.
Construction of a Bypass Road for Improved Security
In response to the ongoing security concerns in the area, Israeli authorities are set to begin constructing a bypass road around Al-Funduq. This project is expected to improve the safety and quality of life for residents and travelers in the region. The first phase of the bypass will connect the western section of the route to Karnei Shomron. The road is part of a broader strategy to develop bypass routes throughout Samaria, with previous efforts including the Huwara and Al-Lubban bypasses.
Yossi Dagan highlighted that the construction of the bypass roads represents a “revolution of bypass roads in Samaria” and a significant step in enhancing security in the region. He further expressed his commitment to strengthening the area and expanding the settlement of Judea and Samaria.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who were the victims of the shooting near Al-Funduq?
The victims were Master Sgt. Elad Yaakov Winkelstein, a police officer, and two sisters-in-law, Rachel Cohen and Aliza Raiz, who were killed in the attack. Several others, including the bus driver, were injured.
What led to the shooting attack near Al-Funduq?
The attack was carried out by terrorists who opened fire on a civilian bus and vehicles traveling on Route 55 in northern Samaria.
What actions have the Israeli authorities taken in response to the attack?
The IDF has set up roadblocks, encircled towns, and launched both ground and aerial searches for the gunmen. Security forces are actively pursuing the perpetrators.
How is the local community responding to the attack?
Local leaders, including Yossi Dagan, have called for stronger measures against the Palestinian Authority and the confiscation of illegal weapons to prevent further violence.
What is the significance of the new bypass road being built?
The construction of the bypass road around Al-Funduq is aimed at improving security for residents and travelers. It is part of a broader strategy to develop bypass routes throughout Samaria, enhancing safety in the region.
Conclusion
The tragic shooting near Al-Funduq serves as a stark reminder of the ongoing security challenges faced by Israel in northern Samaria. The attack has sparked a strong response from both the Israeli government and local leaders, with calls for more decisive actions to combat terrorism.
The planned construction of a bypass road is one step towards improving security and protecting civilians in the region. As the search for the attackers continues, Israel remains committed to ensuring the safety of its citizens and bringing those responsible to justice.