Edna Bluestein, 79, Killed in Terror Attack in Tel Aviv Suburb of Raanana Amidst Gaza War

Terror Attack in Tel Aviv Suburb Leaves One Dead and 17 Injured

A horrific terror attack took place on Monday in the quiet Tel Aviv suburb of Raanana, leaving one woman dead and 17 others injured. This rare incident of violence in central Israel has shocked the community, especially in the midst of the country’s ongoing war in Gaza.

The attack was carried out by two Palestinian men who stabbed and rammed innocent pedestrians with their cars. Raanana, known for its large population of English-speaking immigrants, was left in shock as the violence unfolded. Sadly, the victim who lost her life has been identified as 79-year-old Edna Bluestein. Additionally, a 16-year-old boy and two other victims sustained serious injuries and are currently receiving medical treatment. The timing of the attack, which occurred at the end of the school day, meant that several children were among those hospitalized.

The perpetrators, who were later apprehended by the police, were found to be working in Israel illegally. They confessed that their actions were inspired by the ongoing war in Gaza, according to Israel’s Shin Bet intelligence service. This incident serves as a stark reminder of the deep impact that the conflict in Gaza is having on the region, even extending to central Israel.

While the war in Gaza has now surpassed 100 days, with devastating casualties on both sides, Israel is also facing conflicts on other fronts. The ongoing battle with the Lebanese terror group Hezbollah on the northern border has claimed the lives of 15 Israelis and approximately 200 Lebanese individuals. Additionally, Israeli forces are conducting military operations against suspected Palestinian terror cells in the West Bank, resulting in the deaths of around 300 Palestinians since October 7th.

In light of this attack, there is now a heated debate over whether Israel should continue issuing work permits to Palestinians from the West Bank. Prior to the attack by Hamas on October 7th, around 300,000 Palestinians legally crossed into Israel for work. However, following the suspension of these permits, the West Bank has been plunged into an economic crisis. Last month, Israel’s security cabinet decided against voting on whether to reinstate the permits, further exacerbating the tension and uncertainty in the region.

As the investigation into this tragic incident continues, the community of Raanana and the wider region are left grappling with the shock and aftermath of this senseless act of violence..