Multiple bus explosions struck central Israel on Thursday in what police described as a “suspected terror attack.” Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is set to hold a security meeting in response to the incidents.
No casualties have been reported, though authorities discovered additional explosives on two other buses, prompting a heightened state of alert and a call for public vigilance.
“Preliminary report: Suspected terror attack. Multiple reports have been received of explosions involving several buses at different locations in Bat Yam,” Israeli police said in a statement, according to the Associated Press.
Explosions Follow Return of Hostage Bodies
The attacks occurred shortly after Hamas returned the bodies of four Israeli hostages from Gaza. This marks the first of eight deceased hostages expected to be handed over during the ongoing ceasefire period.
The bus detonations have reignited memories of the Palestinian uprising in the early 2000s, though such attacks have become relatively rare in recent years.
Authorities Investigate the Explosives
According to Israel’s Channel 13, police official Asi Aharoni confirmed that two additional buses were found with explosive devices. Officials stated that all five bombs shared similar characteristics, including timing mechanisms, and bomb disposal teams have since neutralized the unexploded devices.
Security forces launched a nationwide search of buses and trains for any additional explosives, with bomb disposal teams confirming their work was completed. Meanwhile, police were actively investigating in Bat Yam, a city near Tel Aviv, to locate potential suspects.
Search for Perpetrators
Police spokesperson Haim Sargrof told Israeli television that investigators were working to determine whether a single individual planted explosives on multiple buses or if multiple perpetrators were involved.
Bat Yam Mayor Tzvika Brot said it was fortunate that there were no injuries, as the buses were empty and parked at the time of the explosions. He also noted that bomb disposal units were handling another unexploded device in nearby Holon.
Sargrof pointed out similarities between these explosives and devices typically found in the West Bank, though he did not provide further details.
Rising Tensions in the Region
Since Hamas’ October 7 attack, Israeli forces have intensified operations against suspected Palestinian militants in the West Bank, imposing strict entry restrictions on Palestinians from the occupied territories.
Following the start of the Gaza ceasefire on January 19, Israel has escalated its military actions in the West Bank. Historically, Palestinian militants have crossed into Israel to carry out attacks in urban areas.
Netanyahu to Hold Security Meeting
In response to the bus bombings, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu will convene a security meeting, his office confirmed.
“Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has been receiving ongoing updates from his military secretary on the IED incidents in the Dan (central) area and will soon hold a security assessment,” a statement from his office read.
Israeli authorities continue their investigations, seeking to determine those responsible for the attacks and whether additional threats remain.
