Israeli security forces have launched a major military operation, imposing a "complete siege and cordon" on the Palestinian city of Qabatiya in the northern West Bank. The move comes in direct response to a deadly terror attack carried out by a resident of the town in northern Israel the previous day.
Details of the Deadly Attack
The incident began on Friday, December 26, 2025. A sole assailant, identified as 34-year-old Ahmad Abu al-Rub from Qabatiya near Jenin, embarked on a violent rampage across the Beit She'an Valley and the city of Afula. The attack, which lasted approximately 50 minutes, involved both stabbing and car-ramming tactics.
According to reports from Hebrew-language media, the assault resulted in two fatalities and two individuals wounded. The terrorist, who had been working illegally in Israel, was eventually shot and detained at the entrance to Afula. He was hospitalized in moderate condition before being transferred to a security facility for interrogation by the Shin Bet, Israel's internal security agency.
Military Response and Arrests
Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz announced the siege on Saturday evening, stating the Israel Defence Forces (IDF) were "operating with full force" against terror hotspots in Qabatiya. He vowed an "uncompromising offensive policy" against Palestinian terrorism, warning that those who provide backing or shelter would "pay the full price."
In a swift investigative follow-up, Israeli forces arrested two brothers of the terrorist, aged 30 and 33, in an overnight raid near the Arab Israeli town of Arraba in the Lower Galilee. Authorities suspect the brothers were in Israel with Ahmad Abu al-Rub and had attempted to conceal their location. The terrorist's employer, whose vehicle was used in the attack, was also apprehended the previous day.
Ongoing Operations and Consequences
Throughout Saturday, IDF soldiers continued operations within Qabatiya. Military engineers mapped the terrorist's home, initiating procedures for its sealing and eventual demolition, a common Israeli policy following fatal attacks. The order was signed by the head of the IDF Central Command, Maj. Gen. Avi Bluth.
Troops, including commando forces, arrested several suspects allegedly involved in terrorist activities and questioned dozens more at the scene. The police indicated they would seek extensions for the detention of the arrested suspects at a magistrate's court in Nazareth.
The attack underscores the ongoing and volatile security situation in the region, prompting a significant military crackdown focused on the assailant's community. The response highlights Israel's stated policy of holding not only perpetrators but also their enablers accountable for acts of terrorism.
