Jul 24, 2024; Washington, DC, USA; Benjamin Netanyhu, Prime Minister of Israel, addresses the U.S. Congress on July 24, 2024 in Washington © Josh Morgan-USA TODAY
(Allenby Crossing, West Bank) – Three Israeli men in their 50s were shot and killed on Sunday at the Allenby Bridge Crossing, which connects the West Bank and Jordan. The gunman, who approached from the Jordanian side in a truck, opened fire on Israeli security forces, who responded and killed him in a shootout. Jordanian authorities are investigating the incident.
The Allenby Bridge Crossing, used primarily by Palestinians and international visitors, has had few security incidents in the past. Although a Jordanian judge was shot by Israeli security in 2014. Following the latest attack, Israel closed all its land crossings with Jordan until further notice.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu condemned the attack, linking it to Israel’s broader conflict with Iran and militant groups like Hamas and Hezbollah. Violence has surged in the West Bank since Hamas’ Oct. 7 assault from Gaza, and frequently sees ongoing Israeli military raids. Meanwhile, efforts to broker a cease-fire and secure the release of hostages taken during Hamas’ October attack remain stalled.
