Gunmen assault in Jerusalem leaves six deceased

Gunmen assault in Jerusalem leaves six deceased - two perpetrators identified

In a series of recent developments, the ongoing conflict between Israel and Palestine has taken a turn for the worse.

US President Donald Trump issued a "final warning" to Hamas, urging them to seek a diplomatic solution before Israel's expected push into the heart of Gaza City. This warning came after Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz issued a stern warning, stating that a "massive hurricane" would descend upon Gaza City if Hamas did not release hostages and lay down their weapons.

The tension escalated further with a terror attack in northern Jerusalem, which claimed the lives of at least six people. The attackers, hailing from the Palestinian villages of Katana and Al-Kubeiba, located in the occupied West Bank north of Jerusalem, shot at people waiting at a bus stop and also shot into a bus. Around ten more people were injured, several seriously.

In response, Israeli police have arrested several individuals suspected of preparing attacks in Jerusalem. One such arrest was made in the eastern part of Jerusalem, where a resident is believed to have been involved in the preparation of the attack. Further investigations are ongoing with the internal security service Shin Bet to identify all involved and hold them accountable.

Israeli President Izchak Herzog described the attack as a reminder that they are fighting against absolute evil. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu threatened suspected helpers of the attackers. Meanwhile, Palestinian President Mahmud Abbas condemned any attacks on civilians and all forms of violence and terrorism.

Amidst the violence, approximately 100,000 Palestinians have left Gaza City, with around one million people currently residing in the Mediterranean city. Israel has urged civilians in Gaza City to move south to avoid potential danger. Aid organizations warn of a further deterioration in the already catastrophic situation of the civilian population in Gaza City.

Israel stresses that it is only fighting Hamas and seeks to spare civilians. The proposed deal involves the handover of all 48 hostages - both alive and dead - on the first day of a ceasefire, in return for Israel halting its offensive in Gaza City. However, it remains to be seen whether this deal will lead to a resolution in the ongoing conflict.

Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul, UN Secretary-General António Guterres, and French President Emmanuel Macron have all condemned the attack. Mahmud Abbas believes that security and stability in the region can only be achieved by ending the Israeli occupation of Palestinian territories, stopping acts of genocide in the Gaza Strip, and stopping terrorism by settlers throughout the West Bank.

As the situation continues to unfold, both sides remain resolute in their positions, with no clear path to peace in sight.