Gunman Kills 2 at Israel-Jordan Crossing in Escalating Violence

URGENT UPDATE: A gunman has killed two individuals at the Allenby Bridge, the Israeli-run border crossing between the occupied West Bank and Jordan. Officials report that the attack, described by the Israeli military as a militant incident, occurred when the assailant, identified as Jordanian, arrived in a truck carrying humanitarian aid.

The tragic shooting unfolded earlier today, resulting in the deaths of two men, aged approximately 60 and 20. Emergency responders from Israel’s Magen David Adom service provided initial treatment at the scene, but both succumbed to their injuries. The Israeli military has confirmed that the attacker has been “neutralised,” though further details remain scarce.

This incident highlights the escalating violence in the region. The Israeli foreign ministry condemned the attack, attributing it to the pervasive incitement from Jordan and echoing claims from Hamas. The statement emphasized the need to address the ongoing rhetoric fueling such violence:

“This is yet another result of the vile incitement in Jordan.”

Jordan has responded by launching an investigation into the shooting, labeling it a serious threat to the kingdom’s interests, particularly concerning its ability to deliver humanitarian aid to the besieged Gaza Strip. This attack follows a previous shooting in September 2024, where a retired Jordanian soldier killed three Israelis at the same crossing, raising concerns over the stability in this critical transit point.

The Allenby Bridge is the only international gateway for Palestinians from the West Bank that does not necessitate entering Israel. The ongoing violence and turmoil in the region have intensified since the October 2023 attacks led by Hamas against Israel, resulting in a significant uptick in hostilities.

In parallel, Israel’s military operations in Gaza City have forced over 200,000 Palestinians to flee their homes amidst a major ground offensive. Witnesses describe chaotic scenes of civilians evacuating, with reports of skyrocketing costs for transportation to safer areas. Reports indicate that the humanitarian situation has reached critical levels, with UN officials warning of a famine in the region.

As violence continues to escalate, the international community is watching closely. The UN reported that conditions in the West Bank have deteriorated to levels not seen in nearly 60 years, with the potential for further destabilization as tensions rise between Israel and Jordan.

Authorities have called for calm as investigations into the Allenby Bridge shooting unfold. Meanwhile, humanitarian agencies emphasize the urgent need for aid and support for those affected by ongoing violence in both the West Bank and Gaza.

Stay tuned for further updates on this developing story as the situation evolves.