IDF soldier fires in air during brawl with Arab men in Mitzpe Ramon

An Israel Defense Forces soldier fired into the air during a brawl with Arab men at a gas station in southern Israel on Wednesday.

During the verbal and physical confrontation in Mitzpe Ramon, one of the civilians tried to snatch a gun from one of the soldiers, a police spokesperson said.

The IDF said the soldier opened fire in the air in response to the apparent attempt to take away his weapon.

Police said officers detained the soldier who opened fire as well as two of the civilians who were allegedly involved in the brawl.

There were no reports of injuries or damage caused as a result of the shooting.

The identities of those involved were not immediately released.

It was not immediately clear what caused the initial argument in Mitzpe Ramon. Police said they were investigating the matter jointly with the Military Police.