Netanyahu Orders 'Massive' Counter-Terror Operation After Empty Buses Explode Near Tel Aviv

In a shocking and coordinated attack, three empty buses exploded in Bat Yam, just south of Tel Aviv, on Thursday night. Explosive devices were also found on two additional buses, prompting a massive counter-terrorism response from Israeli authorities.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu ordered the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) to launch a “massive” operation in Judea and Samaria, targeting terrorist infrastructure. He also instructed the Israel Security Agency (Shin Bet) and Israel Police to intensify preventive measures nationwide to thwart potential follow-up attacks.

The explosions occurred on parked, empty buses, avoiding casualties but highlighting a chilling intent. Israeli Police Commissioner Danny Levy was present at the scene, where at least one bomb bore a note stating, “revenge from the Tulkarem refugee camp,” referencing an area known for terrorist activity.

According to Channel 12 News, the attackers planted five explosive devices equipped with timers set to detonate simultaneously. The attack was intended as a “strategic terrorist attack,” with the potential for mass casualties had the bombs exploded during the busy morning commute.

Defense Minister Israel Katz responded by directing the IDF to increase operations in Tulkarem and other refugee camps across Judea and Samaria. “We will pursue the terrorists to the bitter end and destroy the terrorist infrastructure in the camps that serve as a frontline for the Iranian axis of evil,” Katz stated.

Former U.S. Ambassador to Israel David Friedman confirmed the severity of the situation, explaining that Palestinian terrorists aimed to carry out a “massive attack” during Friday’s rush hour. “The casualties could have been overwhelming,” Friedman wrote. “Thank God this attack was stopped.”

Security forces, including the Shin Bet, were deployed to Bat Yam and surrounding areas. Public transportation operators in the Tel Aviv metropolitan area were instructed to halt and thoroughly inspect all buses, trains, and light rails for additional explosive devices.

Bat Yam Mayor Zvika Brot confirmed that two bombs detonated minutes apart and warned of a potential third device. Soon after, media outlets aired footage of a third explosion in the area.

The devices were “likely meant to detonate during rush hour for a mass casualty attack,” Mark Dubowitz, CEO of the Foundation for Defense of Democracies, stated. Jason Brodsky, policy director at United Against Nuclear Iran, noted the concerning timing of the attack with the visit of the Palestinian Islamic Jihad leader to Iran this week.

Earlier this month, Israeli security forces prevented a similar bus bombing in Jerusalem, arresting five Palestinian terrorists affiliated with Hamas and Fatah. Authorities believe Thursday’s attack may be part of a broader escalation by terrorist groups, including Palestinian Islamic Jihad, potentially backed by Iranian influence.

Israeli security forces remain on high alert, determined to prevent further attacks and maintain public safety.

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