Three Israelis Killed in West Bank Attack Amid Escalating Tensions

Three Israelis were killed near Hebron in a drive-by shooting, prompting calls for stronger action against militants. The attack, confirmed by the Israeli military, comes amidst widespread raids to root out Islamist militants. Hamas praised the attack, calling it a response to Gaza conflict atrocities.

Three Israelis were fatally shot on Sunday near Hebron in the occupied West Bank, according to Israeli officials. The security forces have launched a manhunt for the attackers since the incident at the Idna Tarqumiyah Junction was confirmed by the military. This comes during extensive raids aimed at eliminating Islamist militants.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu condemned the attack, emphasizing the fight against a relentless enemy. Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich, a hardliner in the security cabinet, called for stronger pre-emptive measures against Palestinian militants following the deadly assault.

Hamas praised the attack, describing it as a natural response to hostilities in Gaza, but did not claim responsibility. The group urged armed individuals to target Israeli occupiers, accusing Israel of committing massacres in the Gaza Strip—a charge Israel denies.

(With inputs from agencies.)