Attack at Al-Khader Junction
Two Israeli teenagers sustained injuries, one severely, in a combined car-ramming and attempted stabbing attack that occurred on Tuesday, September 30, 2025, at the Al-Khader Junction in the West Bank. The incident took place on Route 60, also known as the Tunnel Road, south of Jerusalem and near Bethlehem.
According to Israeli authorities, the assailant, identified as Mahdi Muhammad Awad Dirieh, 32, from the nearby Palestinian town of Beit Fajjar, drove his vehicle into pedestrians waiting on the side of the highway. After ramming the teenagers, Dirieh exited his car armed with a knife and attempted to stab them.
Victims and Assailant's Neutralization
The two Israeli teenagers, aged 15 and 16, suffered injuries to their heads and extremities. The 15-year-old was transported to Shaare Zedek Medical Center in Jerusalem in moderate-to-serious condition, while the 16-year-old was taken to Hadassah Ein Kerem Hospital in moderate condition.
The assailant was fatally shot by Colonel (res.) Hezi Nehama, a senior reservist officer who was passing by the scene. Nehama recounted that he initially believed the incident was an accident until witnesses alerted him that the driver had a knife. He stated, 'I fired at his legs and ordered him to stop. When he advanced, I fired at his upper body.'
Security Response and Regional Context
Following the attack, Israeli security forces swiftly deployed to the area, establishing roadblocks, encircling nearby Palestinian towns, and conducting searches to rule out the presence of any accomplices. Surveillance camera footage captured the moments of the attack, showing the vehicle swerving into the individuals and the subsequent gunfire.
The Al-Khader Junction is recognized as a flashpoint in the region and has been the site of previous attacks. This incident occurs amid heightened tensions and a rise in violence across the West Bank since the commencement of the Gaza war on October 7, 2023.
5 Comments
Comandante
This incident is a stark reminder of the escalating tensions. There's a need for both immediate security and long-term diplomatic solutions to prevent further loss of life.
Muchacha
No one wants to see teenagers injured, but we also can't ignore the daily realities and frustrations faced by Palestinians under occupation.
Manolo Noriega
Security is paramount, yet these incidents highlight the desperate situation in the West Bank. Both sides are suffering immensely.
Ongania
Terrorists must be stopped. Thank goodness for that reservist!
Fuerza
While the attack on the teens is horrific and unacceptable, the constant cycle of violence points to a much deeper, unresolved political issue.