A terror attack in northern Jerusalem on Monday morning left at least six people dead and many more injured. Two Palestinian gunmen opened fire on a crowded bus at Ramot Junction, targeting passengers as the bus reached the stop on Line 62. Witnesses described a scene of chaos and panic, with the gunfire erupting suddenly and trapping some passengers inside the bus due to a mechanical issue with the doors.
Among the victims were Yaakov Pinto, a 25-year-old immigrant from Spain who had recently married, Rabbi Levi Yitzhak Pash, a yeshiva teacher, and two residents of Ramot, Israel Mentzer, 28, and Yosef David, 43. Tragically, two additional victims, including a woman in her 50s, later died from their injuries. Emergency services reported at least 21 injuries, with several individuals in critical condition. The wounded were rushed to Shaare Zedek Medical Center and Hadassah-University Hospitals.
The attackers, both in their twenties and from Palestinian towns near Ramallah, boarded the bus and began shooting indiscriminately. Eyewitnesses recounted the horror of the moment, with many people unable to escape the gunfire. A soldier and several civilians bravely returned fire, killing the two gunmen on the spot.
Emergency responders found a grim scene, with victims scattered across the area. Paramedics described the chaos, noting shattered glass and unconscious individuals. Teams from Magen David Adom and United Hatzalah worked swiftly to treat the wounded and evacuate them from the site.
Israeli security forces quickly sealed off Jerusalem, shutting down Highway 1 and launching a manhunt for any accomplices. The Shin Bet security agency arrested a resident of East Jerusalem on suspicion of aiding the attackers. Authorities believe that logistical support may have played a role in the planning of the assault.
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu visited the scene shortly after the attack, emphasizing Israel’s ongoing battle against terrorism. He commended the quick actions of those who intervened during the attack and reaffirmed Israel’s commitment to military operations in Gaza and the West Bank. President Isaac Herzog condemned the attack, calling it an act of "absolute evil," and praised the bravery of civilians and emergency responders.
This incident is part of a troubling pattern of violence in the region. Attacks like this have occurred repeatedly over the years, leaving a deep impact on communities and raising questions about safety and security in Israel. As the nation mourns the loss of life, the call for justice and security continues to resonate among its citizens.
