Full Breakdown
Fatal Shooting at Allenby Crossing: Two Israelis Killed
9/18/2025, 9:59:30 PM
Incident Overview
On September 18, 2025, a shooting incident at the Allenby Crossing, the main border point between the Israeli-occupied West Bank and Jordan, resulted in the deaths of two Israeli military personnel. The assailant, identified as Abdul Muttalib Al-Qaisi, a Jordanian civilian who had been delivering humanitarian aid to Gaza for three months, opened fire on the victims before being killed by Israeli security forces. The two deceased were Lieutenant Colonel Yitzhak Harosh, 68, and Sergeant Oran Hershko, 20.
Details of the Attack
The attack occurred around 2:35 PM as Al-Qaisi arrived at the crossing in a truck carrying humanitarian aid. Reports indicate that he first opened fire with a firearm and, when it malfunctioned, resorted to stabbing the victims with a knife. The Israeli military described the incident as a terrorist attack, stating that the assailant was "neutralised" at the scene. Emergency medical teams from Magen David Adom (MDA) attempted resuscitation efforts but ultimately pronounced both victims dead.
Context and Background
The Allenby Crossing, also known as the King Hussein Bridge, is a crucial transit point for goods and humanitarian aid between Jordan and the West Bank. It has been the site of previous attacks, including a September 2024 incident where three Israeli guards were killed by a Jordanian gunman. The crossing is generally considered secure, raising questions about how Al-Qaisi was able to carry out the attack without detection.
Official Responses
Jordan's foreign ministry condemned the shooting, labeling it a violation of international law and a threat to its humanitarian efforts in Gaza. The ministry confirmed that an investigation into the incident is underway. In contrast, the Israeli military has suggested that the attack reflects ongoing tensions and incitement within Jordan, with Israeli officials calling for a review of security protocols for aid deliveries from Jordan.
Criticism and Opposition
Critics have raised concerns about the security measures at the Allenby Crossing, questioning how an armed individual could pass through without being detected. The incident has intensified scrutiny of the existing protocols for humanitarian aid transport, particularly in light of the recent escalation of violence in the region.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
While most sources agree on the basic facts of the incident, discrepancies exist regarding the specifics of the attack. Some reports suggest that Al-Qaisi may have used both a firearm and a knife, while others focus solely on the shooting aspect. Additionally, the motivations behind the attack remain unclear, with no group claiming responsibility, although Hamas praised the act as a response to Israeli actions in Gaza.
What's Next
Following the attack, Israeli authorities have temporarily halted the entry of humanitarian aid from Jordan pending the outcome of the investigation. Security forces have increased their presence in the area, particularly around the nearby town of Jericho, as they search for potential accomplices and assess security vulnerabilities at the crossing.
Verbatim Quotes
- “a terrorist arrived in a truck transporting humanitarian aid from Jordan, and opened fire” — Israeli Military Statement
- “as a violation of the law and a threat to the Kingdom's interests and its ability to deliver humanitarian aid to the Gaza Strip” — Jordanian Foreign Ministry
- “We must not get used to the routine of terror attacks and this loss of control.” — Yair Lapid, Israeli Opposition Leader
This tragic event underscores the fragile security situation in the region and the complexities surrounding humanitarian efforts amidst ongoing conflict.
