Tensions in the Middle East escalated further as three empty buses exploded simultaneously in Tel Aviv on Thursday night. The Israeli Police have termed the incident a “suspected terror attack,” as explosive devices were also discovered on two other buses. No injuries have been reported.
The explosions took place in Bat Yam, a southern suburb of Tel Aviv, with visuals showing buses completely engulfed in flames. Additional explosive devices were neutralized on a bus in Holon and another on the outskirts of Tel Aviv. Following the incident, the Israeli Transportation Ministry temporarily halted public transportation and instructed security checks on all buses and trains.
In response, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has directed the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) to launch a large-scale operation in the West Bank, targeting what officials call “terrorist hubs.” Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz also ordered intensified military raids in refugee camps in the occupied West Bank.
The bombings come amid a fragile ceasefire between Israel and Hamas, with both sides having undergone seven rounds of hostage exchanges so far. Meanwhile, Israeli security agencies, including the IDF and Shin Bet, are investigating the attack as tensions in the region continue to rise.