At least five people were killed and several others injured on Monday morning in a shooting attack at Ramot Junction, a busy intersection at the northern entrance of Jerusalem.
Israel’s emergency service, Magen David Adom (MDA), reported that around 15 people were injured in the attack, with first responders describing a scene of chaos — victims lying on the road and broken glass scattered near a bus stop.
According to preliminary reports, at least two gunmen boarded a bus and opened fire on passengers before being neutralised by Israeli security forces. The attack occurred during morning rush hour on Yigal Yadin Street, a major road leading to Jewish settlements in East Jerusalem.
“Reports were received at 10:13 am [local time] about approximately 15 injured, apparently from gunfire, at the Ramot Junction,” AFP quoted an MDA statement as saying.
Footage from the scene showed dozens of commuters running for cover as gunfire erupted. Emergency services were seen evacuating the wounded to nearby hospitals.
The attack came just hours after Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz issued a stern warning to Hamas, demanding that the militant group disarm and surrender or face “annihilation.” The timing has raised concerns about a possible escalation of tensions in the region.
Jerusalem has been on edge in recent weeks with frequent demonstrations demanding the release of hostages held in Gaza. Last week, protesters clashed with security forces, set fires to garbage bins, and occupied buildings, prompting police intervention.
Israeli authorities have yet to release the identities of the attackers but confirmed that the “terrorists” were killed at the scene. Security has been stepped up across the city as investigators work to determine whether the gunmen acted alone or were part of a larger cell.
