A violent terrorist attack in Jerusalem on March 4, 2024, resulted in the deaths of at least six individuals and left 21 others injured. The assailants targeted a crowded bus stop and a bus at the Ramot Junction. In response, an off-duty soldier and several civilians shot and killed both terrorists, who were identified as Palestinians from the West Bank.
Among the deceased were at least three rabbis, with four victims pronounced dead at the scene, while two others succumbed to their injuries in a local hospital. Paramedic Nadav Taib described the scene: “When we arrived, we saw people lying unconscious on the road, on the side of the road, and on the sidewalk near a bus stop. There was a lot of destruction, shattered glass on the floor, and a lot of commotion.” Another paramedic, Fadi Dkaidek, echoed this sentiment, stating, “The wounded were lying on the road and sidewalk near a bus station, some of them unconscious.”
Eyewitness accounts paint a harrowing picture of the attack. One elderly woman, a passenger on the bus, recalled, “Gunfire like nothing I’ve ever experienced.” Reports indicate that the attackers utilized a makeshift submachine gun known as a “Carlo,” or Carl Gustav, during the assault.
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu condemned the attack, asserting, “Terror attacks only increase our determination to complete our missions, in Judea and Samaria, too — everywhere.” He emphasized that Israel remains committed to eliminating Hamas and securing the release of hostages. “Sadly, the war also continues in Jerusalem and in Judea and Samaria, where we have acted with great force,” he added.
Dashcam footage from the scene captured the moments leading up to the shooting. The attackers opened fire as the bus arrived at the stop, leading to chaos among passengers and bystanders. Both terrorists were killed by armed civilians and a soldier who intervened.
National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir highlighted the role of civilian defense, stating, “Weapons save lives.” He expressed condolences for those affected, calling it a “painful and difficult morning” for the nation.
Israeli President Isaac Herzog described the attack as an act of barbarity that resulted in the cold-blooded murder and injury of innocent civilians, including women and children. He praised the heroism of those who intervened to prevent further loss of life. Herzog stated, “This shocking attack reminds us once again that we are fighting absolute evil.”
In stark contrast, a representative from the Palestinian militant group Hamas referred to the attack as a “heroic and unique operation,” framing it as a response to Israel’s ongoing military actions against Palestinians in Gaza, the West Bank, and Jerusalem.
The incident has reignited discussions around security measures in the region, particularly regarding the arming of civilians in response to rising tensions. As investigations continue, the impact of this latest attack is sure to resonate throughout the community and beyond.
