A man in his 60s was attacked with an ax in his yard in the Gan Ner community in northern Israel’s Gilboa region on Friday.
The victim, who sustained light wounds, was taken to Emek Medical Center in Afula, while the attacker fled the scene.
Residents of Gan Ner were instructed to stay indoors until further notice, as security forces searched for the attacker.
Initial suspicions indicate it was a terrorist attack, and the assailant is believed to be an Arab.
The community is located around 18 minutes from Jenin, where the Israel Defense Forces are carrying out “Operation Iron Wall” targeting terrorist infrastructure in northern Samaria. As part of the operation, Defense Minister Israel Katz has authorized the destruction of buildings tied to terrorist activities.
Police rule out security threat in Tamra
Earlier on Thursday, police ruled out a security incident after arresting a suspect near Tamra, an Arab city in the Lower Galilee, about 12 miles east of Acre. Authorities initially investigated whether the suspect was carrying an explosive belt.
The suspect, who appeared agitated and uncooperative, was detained when officers noticed concealed electronic devices on his person. Following an initial investigation, the devices are suspected to be connected to an exam-cheating scheme.
Three individuals have been arrested as the investigation continues, with the Israel Security Agency (Shin Bet) also involved in the case.
