JERUSALEM, Sept 9 – Israel has ordered the demolition of homes in the West Bank hometowns of two Palestinian gunmen who opened fire at a Jerusalem bus stop on Monday, killing six people. The attackers, both from the villages of Qatanna and Qubeiba north of Jerusalem, were shot dead at the scene.
Defence Minister Israel Katz said the move would target the families of the attackers as well as residents of the two villages. According to his statement, every building constructed without permits in the towns will be torn down, while about 750 people will lose their permits to work in Israel, a main source of livelihood for many Palestinian families.
Key Points:
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Two Palestinian gunmen killed six people at a Jerusalem bus stop.
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Israel will demolish homes in Qatanna and Qubeiba, the attackers’ hometowns.
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750 work permits for villagers and relatives are being revoked.
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Critics call the policy collective punishment under international law.
Israeli authorities argue that demolishing homes connected to attackers helps deter future violence. Palestinians and rights groups reject the measure, saying it punishes innocent families.
Police confirmed the arrest of an East Jerusalem resident accused of helping the gunmen reach the attack site. Security forces continue to search for others linked to the shooting.
National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir announced he would broaden the list of communities eligible for civilian gun licenses, saying the attack showed that armed citizens prevented further loss of life.
The incident has intensified tensions across the West Bank, where restrictions and demolitions have long been a source of friction between Israeli authorities and Palestinian communities.