A series of bus explosions shook Bat Yam near Tel Aviv on Thursday, with Israeli police confirming a suspected coordinated terror attack. Three empty buses detonated in parking lots 500 meters apart, though no injuries were reported. Bomb disposal units discovered two additional explosive devices resembling weapons previously used in West Bank conflicts.
Bat Yam Mayor Zvika Brot confirmed the attacks occurred in isolated areas, preventing civilian casualties. A handwritten note reading
Revenge against the Tulkarm campaccompanied one device, referencing last week’s Israeli military operation in the West Bank.
Police sources revealed the attack was likely planned for Friday morning during peak pre-Sabbath travel. At least one device detonated prematurely, averting a wider disaster, an investigator told ABC News. Security measures now include:
- 24-hour sweeps of public transit hubs
- Heightened surveillance in Bat Yam and southern Tel Aviv
- Public alerts via emergency broadcast systems
The Shin Bet has joined the investigation amid concerns of broader militant collaboration. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu received continuous updates as authorities warned residents to avoid unattended bags and report suspicious activity.
This incident follows escalating tensions after IDF operations in Tulkarm left 12 militants dead. Analysts speculate the attack aimed to destabilize negotiations over Gaza hostages, including the recently recovered Bibas family remains.