Three Israelis Killed in Shooting Attack at Jerusalem Bus Station: Rabbi Elimelech Wasserman, Hana Ifergan, and Livia Dickman

A shooting at a bus station near Jerusalem this morning has resulted in the deaths of three Israelis, with 11 others sustaining various injuries. Israeli police have reported that the attack was carried out by two Hamas terrorists, who drove to the Givat Shaul junction on the outskirts of the Holy City in an armed vehicle and opened fire on unsuspecting victims. The police responded to the incident at around 7:40 a.m. local time.

The deceased victims have been identified as 73-year-old Rabbi Elimelech Wasserman, 67-year-old Hana Ifergan, and 24-year-old Livia Dickman. The two shooters, who were from east Jerusalem, were shot and killed by Israel Defense Forces (IDF) soldiers in the area. Unfortunately, a civilian was also killed during the exchange.

Israeli media has reported that the shooters were brothers and associated with Hamas. The initial investigation suggests that the terrorists arrived at the scene armed with an M-16 rifle and a handgun. They began shooting at civilians before being killed by the police. Ammunition and weaponry were found in their vehicle.

The surviving victims have been transported to two area hospitals for treatment. Three victims with gunshot wounds were taken to Hadassah Hospital, while four others are being treated for non-physical injuries. Several other victims were taken to Shaarei Tzedek Hospital, with two succumbing to their injuries. Four more victims are being treated, including three in serious condition and one in moderate condition.

The area of the attack has been cordoned off, and searches are underway to rule out any additional suspects. U.S. Ambassador to Israel, Jack Lew, condemned the shooting on social media, expressing sympathy for the victims and their families.

In a separate incident, the IDF reported a ramming attack at an Israeli checkpoint in the Jordan Valley area. The assailant was shot and neutralized by IDF soldiers at the scene. Two Israeli soldiers suffered minor injuries and were taken to a hospital for treatment. The IDF is conducting an investigation and searching the area for any other potential suspects.

These incidents occurred during a temporary cease-fire between Israel and Hamas, which was disrupted when Hamas invaded Israel on October 7.