Updated April 1, 2024 at 01:19

A terror attack took place on Sunday night in Gan Yavne, near a shopping center, leaving three people seriously wounded, according to Israeli media reports citing Magen David Adom (MDA). The incident resulted in the death of the attacker.

The police arrived at the scene of the attack and confirmed that a terrorist had been apprehended and neutralized. Israel Police Commissioner Yaakov (Kobi) Shabtai was on his way to the scene, highlighting the seriousness of the situation.

The police provided details regarding the attack, stating that a terrorist armed with two knives arrived at the commercial area in Gan Yavne. Three civilians were stabbed and sustained moderate to severe injuries according to medical sources. The assailant first targeted an individual outside a gym, then proceeded to enter the gym where he attacked another person. Later, near a coffee shop on the first floor, the terrorist stabbed a third victim.

Responding swiftly to distress calls from the scene, a police officer and a municipal officer from Gan Yavne managed to locate and neutralize the attacker. They successfully prevented further harm to civilians, although three were already wounded.

Medical personnel from Magen David Adom (MDA) described the situation upon their arrival. They found a 17-year-old male lying on the pavement near the mall, conscious but with bleeding and stab wounds covering his body. The other two victims were located approximately 100 meters away from one of the cafes. They provided life-saving treatment to the injured youth and transported him to the hospital in serious condition.

According to Israeli media reports, the terrorist was identified as a 19-year-old illegal alien who had been working in Israel without a permit. The attack has raised concerns about security and has prompted National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir to reinforce the resolve to combat such threats.

"We have policemen on alert, there is a war, there is an enemy, and we have to mow them down," said Ben-Gvir, emphasizing the determination to protect the security and well-being of the community.

The incident in Gan Yavne serves as a stark reminder of the ongoing challenges faced in maintaining public safety and combating acts of terrorism. Authorities will continue to investigate the attack and take necessary measures to prevent future occurrences.