At least four people have been killed in a shooting attack in Tel Aviv.
ADVERTISEMENTAt least four people have been killed in a shooting attack in Tel Aviv. The aftermath was captured on amateur video.
Minutes before those who were out shopping or eating at restaurants in the trendy Sarona complex were sent running as two gunman opened fire. Six people were also injured.
Police arrested two suspects – one was wounded as he was detained.
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu rushed directly to the scene:
“I think a larger tragedy was avoided by the resolute action of the citizens, of security people, police. We’re gonna take the necessary steps to attack the attackers and to defend those who need to be defended.”
The two suspects are thought to be Palestinian cousins from near Hebron in Israeli-occupied West Bank.
The shooting which happened near the Israeli Ministry of Defence, is one of the most serious assaults in Israel’s business and entertainment capital since a wave of Palestinian violence began eight months ago.
Tensions over Jewish access to a volatile and contested Jerusalem holy site, revered by Muslims and Jews alike have fuelled the violence.
Since then Palestinians have killed 31 Israelis and two visiting US citizens. Israeli forces have shot dead at least 196 Palestinians.
The frequency of Palestinian attacks which have included stabbings, car rammings and shootings have lessened recently.
SHATTERING UPDATE: Death toll of mass shooting terror attack in Tel Aviv rises to 3.
4 y/o girl among victims. pic.twitter.com/XOo33s8ZhE— Israel News Flash (@ILNewsFlash) June 8, 2016