Israeli forces killed a Palestinian man in Nablus on Monday evening. He was accused of a car ramming attack in May 2024 that left two soldiers dead outside the West Bank city.
This operation involved elite counterterrorism police who tracked the suspect for over a year. The event unfolded amid rising tensions in the region, drawing attention to ongoing security challenges in the occupied West Bank.
What Happened in Nablus Raid
Counterterrorism officers from the Yamam unit surrounded a building in eastern Nablus where the suspect hid. They used a drone to confirm his death after an exchange of fire.
The raid started late Monday, with forces closing in based on intelligence. Officials stated the man was armed, leading to the decision to open fire.
This action came after months of pursuit. Several people linked to the suspect were also arrested during the operation.
Security teams had monitored his movements since the original attack. The incident highlights how Israeli forces handle threats in Palestinian areas.
Details of the 2024 Car Ramming Attack
The attack occurred on May 29, 2024, near a checkpoint outside Nablus. The suspect drove his vehicle into an army post, killing two young soldiers.
Staff Sergeant Eliya Hilel, 20, from Tel Zion, and Staff Sergeant Diego Shvisha Harsaj, 20, from Tel Aviv, served in the Kfir Brigade. They died at the scene from their injuries.
After the ramming, the attacker fled into Nablus. He turned himself in to Palestinian Authority security forces but was later released without being handed over to Israel.
This release sparked controversy and intensified the search. The event was one of several violent incidents in the West Bank that year.
Investigators linked the attack to broader unrest. It followed a pattern of car rammings that have claimed lives on both sides.
Who Was the Suspect
The man killed was Abdel Raouf Shatyeh, a Palestinian from the Nablus area. He became a wanted figure right after the 2024 incident.
Shatyeh handed himself over to Palestinian authorities initially. Their decision to free him allowed him to evade capture for months.
During the raid, forces found him armed and ready to resist. This led to the fatal confrontation.
His case raises questions about coordination between Israeli and Palestinian security. Some see it as a failure in joint efforts to prevent violence.
Recent reports suggest he had accomplices who helped him hide. Several were detained in the same operation, adding layers to the story.
Broader Context of West Bank Violence
The West Bank has seen a surge in clashes since 2023. Car rammings, shootings, and raids have become more frequent amid political tensions.
In 2025 alone, over 500 Palestinians and dozens of Israelis have died in related incidents. This raid fits into a pattern of targeted operations.
Experts point to settlement expansions and economic hardships as fuel for unrest. International observers call for de escalation to prevent further loss of life.
Here is a quick look at recent West Bank incidents:
- May 2024: Car ramming near Nablus kills two Israeli soldiers.
- September 2025: Shooting during a car ramming injures an Israeli soldier near Nablus.
- November 2025: Stabbing and ramming attack kills one Israeli and wounds three others.
These events show a troubling trend. Security measures have ramped up, but violence persists.
Reactions from Officials and Groups
Israeli military leaders praised the operation as a success in combating terrorism. They stressed the need to hold attackers accountable.
Palestinian sources reported the death during an exchange of fire. They accused Israeli forces of excessive force in a crowded city.
Human rights groups urged investigations into the raid. They worry about civilian risks in such operations.
The Palestinian Authority has not commented directly on the release. This silence adds to debates about their role in security matters.
International reactions vary, with some calling for peace talks. The United States expressed support for Israel’s right to defend itself.
Impact on Regional Security
This killing could escalate tensions in Nablus and beyond. Residents fear more raids and restrictions on movement.
Security analysts predict short term spikes in violence. They advise caution for travelers in the area.
Long term, it underscores the need for dialogue. Without it, cycles of retaliation may continue.
The table below outlines key statistics on West Bank violence in recent years:
| Year | Palestinian Deaths | Israeli Deaths | Major Incidents |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2023 | 250 | 30 | Over 100 clashes and attacks |
| 2024 | 400 | 40 | Surge in car rammings and shootings |
| 2025 | 500+ | 50+ | Ongoing raids and targeted killings |
These numbers come from official reports and highlight the human cost. Efforts to reduce violence include ceasefires and aid programs.
Looking Ahead
As investigations continue, this event reminds us of the fragile peace in the region. Families of the victims may find some closure, but broader issues remain.
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