A violent incident in northern Israel resulted in the deaths of two individuals, prompting Israeli authorities to label it a “rolling terror attack.” The assault occurred in the town of Qabaitya, from where the assailant reportedly originated. According to the Israeli Defence Minister, Israel Katz, the military has been directed to respond forcefully in the region to prevent further violence.
The attack also left a teenager injured, while emergency services pronounced the two deceased—a man and a woman—dead at the scene after attempts at resuscitation failed. This latest act of violence contributes to a troubling trend, as the year has seen escalating conflict in the region.
Military Response and Background
In response to the attack, the Israeli military announced that it is “preparing for an operation” in Qabaitya. This follows a separate incident on Thursday, where an Israeli reservist soldier drove his vehicle into a Palestinian man who was praying at the roadside in the occupied West Bank. The military confirmed that the individual had earlier discharged his firearm in the vicinity.
The armed reservist was described as acting “in severe violation of his authority,” and his military service has since been terminated. His weapon has been confiscated, and Israeli media reported that he is currently under house arrest. The Palestinian man involved in that incident was taken to the hospital for examination but did not sustain injuries and has since returned home.
Video footage verified by Reuters features an armed individual in civilian clothing driving an off-road vehicle into a person engaged in prayer, further intensifying scrutiny on the actions of Israeli forces in the region.
Escalating Violence and Casualties
The ongoing violence has made 2023 one of the most tumultuous years on record for Israeli attacks against Palestinians in the West Bank. According to data from the United Nations, over 750 Palestinians have sustained injuries this year alone. From October 7, 2023, to October 17, 2025, the UN reported that more than a thousand Palestinians were killed, primarily as a result of operations conducted by security forces, alongside incidents of settler violence. During the same period, 57 Israelis have lost their lives in attacks claimed by Palestinians.
The situation continues to draw international attention as both sides grapple with the impact of ongoing violence, highlighting the urgent need for dialogue and resolution in a deeply fractured region.
