IDF chief at site of terror attack expresses ‘great appreciation’ for reservists

Speaking at the scene of today’s deadly terror attack at the Gush Etzion Junction in the West Bank, IDF Chief of Staff Lt. Gen. Eyal Zamir says reservist troops “demonstrated their willingness to stand on the front line,” after they shot dead both Palestinian assailants.

“Today we experienced a difficult incident in which an Israeli civilian was murdered and three others were wounded. The reserve soldiers once again demonstrated their fighting spirit and their willingness to stand on the front line. Alongside the difficult incident, I want to express great appreciation and commendation. In today’s event, we saw [troops’] engaging, determination and professional conduct, just as we expect,” Zamir says.

He says the troops “acted with vigilance and composure and thwarted a threat to Israeli civilians.”

“We will be required to continue to remain alert alongside intensified and offensive activity; this is our mission in protecting the communities and residents,” Zamir adds.

According to the IDF, Zamir held an initial debrief on the attack with senior commanders, including Central Command chief Maj. Gen. Avi Bluth, Judea and Samaria Division commander Brig. Gen. Kobi Heller, Civil Administration head Brig. Gen. Hisham Ibrahim, and commander of the Border Police’s West Bank unit Assistant Commissioner Niso Guetta.