Terror attack: Multiple bus explosions in Israel’s Bat Yam; Netanyahu calls security meeting
PTC Web Desk: A series of explosions rocked the central Israeli city of Bat Yam on Thursday evening, with three buses targeted in what the authorities suspect to be a terror attack. While no injuries were reported, Israeli officials have accused Palestinian militant groups of orchestrating the blasts.
Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz blamed Palestinian terrorist organisations, while Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu scheduled an emergency security meeting to assess the situation.
According to the Israeli police, three bombs detonated on buses at different locations, while two additional devices were being defused. The authorities have launched a large-scale search operation for suspects and urged the public to remain vigilant.
“Police bomb disposal teams are actively scanning for more suspicious objects. We advise the public to avoid the affected areas and report any unusual activity,” the police stated.
Haim Sargarof, a police commander from central Israel, revealed in a televised briefing that the explosives used in the attack resembled those found in the Israeli-occupied West Bank.
Bat Yam Mayor Tzvika Brot reassured the public that there were no casualties but acknowledged the severity of the incident. Television footage from the scene showed a completely burnt-out bus and another engulfed in flames.
The Israeli authorities ordered bus drivers nationwide to inspect their vehicles for any potential explosive devices.
Following the attacks, Netanyahu’s office issued a statement emphasising the seriousness of the incident and vowed a strong response against terror elements in the West Bank.
"Placing explosives on buses is a grave escalation. The Prime Minister will take decisive action to ensure security," an official from his office stated.
- With inputs from agencies
