Explosions Rock Bat Yam and Holon as Three Buses Detonated in Suspected Terror Attack
No Injuries Reported; Authorities Suspect West Bank Terror Cell
Three empty buses exploded in Bat Yam and Holon late Thursday night in what Israeli authorities believe to be a strategically planned terror attack. Fortunately, no injuries were reported as the buses had already been parked for the night.
Explosives Disarmed & Investigations Underway
Police neutralized two additional explosive devices found on nearby buses, preventing further potential destruction. Each device reportedly contained 5 kilograms of explosives, and officials suspect they were intended to detonate on Friday morning when the buses would have been in service.
Government Response & Security Measures
Following the attack, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu held an emergency security briefing, instructing the IDF to launch a massive operation in the West Bank targeting known terrorist hubs. Additionally, Israeli police and intelligence agencies have been directed to intensify preventive measures to avert further attacks.
Suspicion of a West Bank Terror Cell
- Authorities are investigating whether the attack was orchestrated by a West Bank-based terror cell.
- A handwritten message reportedly found on one of the explosives referenced “revenge for the martyrs”, linking the attack to Tulkarem—a known militant stronghold.
- A statement from a Telegram channel linked to Hamas’s Tulkarem Battalion vowed continued resistance but did not explicitly claim responsibility for the attack.
Possible Premature Detonation
According to Channel 12 News, investigators suspect that the bombs were intended to detonate on Friday morning when the buses were occupied but were set off earlier than planned due to a timing error. Former IDF Operations Chief Giora Eiland suggested that the timers may have been incorrectly configured.
Police Continue Investigation
Law enforcement remains on high alert as bomb disposal units sweep the area for additional explosive devices. Authorities have also launched a manhunt for the perpetrators, with police believing multiple suspects were involved in planting the bombs.
Miraculous Escape
In a statement, the Bat Yam Municipality emphasized the narrow escape, saying, “Miraculously, the buses arrived at the parking lots moments before the explosion and were already empty of their passengers.”
Next Steps
With heightened security measures in place, the Israeli government continues to assess the situation while reinforcing counter-terrorism efforts across the region.
