A Palestinian gunman unleashed a deadly attack in Jerusalem on Tuesday, killing two people and wounding five others in a shooting rampage near the Old City's ancient walls before being neutralised by Israeli security forces.
The attack occurred at a crucial gate leading into the Old City, a area sacred to Judaism, Christianity and Islam, sending panic through the crowded streets filled with tourists and pilgrims.
Israeli emergency services confirmed the tragic toll, with Magen David Adom paramedics reporting two fatalities at the scene. Five victims were transported to hospitals with injuries ranging from moderate to severe, according to medical officials.
Israeli police spokesperson Dean Elsdunne described the rapid response: "A terrorist arrived at the scene and opened fire toward civilians. A police force that was in the area eliminated him." The attacker was reportedly shot dead at the scene by officers.
The shooting marks the latest eruption of violence in a wave of tensions that have gripped the region through 2024. Jerusalem remains a persistent flashpoint in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, with its holy sites representing ground zero for religious and political tensions.
Security forces have cordoned off the area as investigations continue. The identities of the victims and the attacker have not been immediately released as authorities notify families and pursue their inquiries.
This incident follows several months of heightened security alerts and comes amid ongoing political instability in the region. Israeli authorities have repeatedly warned of potential lone-wolf attacks and organised terror operations targeting civilian areas.
The attack has prompted strengthened security measures across Jerusalem, with increased police presence at holy sites, transportation hubs and public gathering places. Authorities are urging vigilance while assuring the public that security forces remain on high alert.
