Source: IDF
Photo: © Andrew Aitchison
An IDF officer and soldier were severely wounded and two soldiers were lightly wounded this morning when Palestinian terrorists activated an explosive device at an IDF force operating in Shchem.Another IDF officer was moderately wounded when Palestinian terrorists activated an explosive device in a separate incident overnight.
Throughout the operation Palestinian terrorists activated a total of 6 explosive devices and opened fire in two different incidents at IDF forces in Shchem.
In searches conducted in the area, the forces uncovered a pipe-bomb, a hunting rifle, a stun-grenade and several AK-47-ammunition clips.
Additionally, IDF forces arrested two wanted Fatah terrorists.
As part of the ongoing IDF activity against terror in the Judea and Samaria region, for the safety and security of the citizens of Israel, IDF forces have been operating in the city of Shchem and in its outskirts, in order to disrupt the extensive terrorist activities in the city and prevent the dispatch of terrorist attacks and bombings into the Israeli Home Front and Israeli communities in Judea and Samaria.
Since the beginning of 2007 IDF forces have uncovered in Shchem, a major terrorist hub, several explosives-labs and a large amount of weaponry, including approximately 10 explosive devices, numerous rifles and other weapons, hand-grenades and additional ammunition.
During 2006, of the 187 potential suicide-bombers arrested in Judea and Samaria, 117 came from the city of Shchem.
Since September 2006, 9 of at least 11 explosive belts uncovered in Judea and Samaria were found in Shchem.
In addition, in 2007 Palestinian terrorists hurled approximately 19 explosive devices and 23 hand grenades and improvised grenades at Israeli security forces operating in Shchem . Palestinians opened fire in dozens of additional incidents at forces in the city.
In January 2007, IDF forces uncovered an explosives-lab and two 5-kg explosive devices.
Additionally, two terrorists in possession of explosive belts meant for use in terrorist attacks in Israel were arrested in Shchem.
The IDF will continue to operate against terror in Judea and Samaria for the
security and safety of the citizens of Israel.
