Full Breakdown
Car-Ramming Attack Injures Two Israeli Teenagers Near Jerusalem
9/30/2025, 7:53:56 PM
Incident Overview
On September 30, 2025, a car-ramming attack occurred at the al-Khader Junction, located on Route 60, which connects Jerusalem to the Gush Etzion area in the West Bank. Two Israeli teenagers were injured in the incident, with one, a 15-year-old boy, sustaining serious injuries, while the other, a 16-year-old boy, was moderately injured. Both were transported to hospitals in Jerusalem for treatment.
Attack Details
According to Israeli authorities, the assailant, identified as Mahdi Muhammad Awad Dirieh, a 32-year-old from Beit Fajjar, drove his vehicle into the teenagers before exiting the car armed with a knife. Col. (res.) Hezi Nehama, a reservist who was passing by, intervened. Initially believing the crash was an accident, Nehama was alerted by bystanders that the driver was armed. He recounted, “I fired at his legs and ordered him to stop. When he advanced, I fired at his upper body.” Nehama's actions resulted in the assailant being fatally shot, preventing further injuries.
Medical Response
Emergency services, including Magen David Adom and United Hatzalah, responded promptly to the scene. The 15-year-old victim was reported to have injuries to his head and limbs, while the 16-year-old was treated for moderate injuries. Both were conscious during their evacuation to Shaare Zedek Medical Center and Hadassah Ein Kerem Hospital, respectively.
Context of Violence
This attack is part of a broader pattern of violence in the West Bank, which has escalated since the onset of the Gaza war on October 7, 2023. Since that date, 62 individuals, including Israeli security personnel, have been killed in various terror attacks across Israel and the West Bank. The al-Khader Junction has previously been a site of multiple attacks, highlighting the ongoing volatility in the region.
Official Statements & Responses
Col. Nehama's actions were praised by Israeli officials, including National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir, who stated, “Once again it has been proven — a personal weapon in the right hands saves lives!” The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) responded to the attack by increasing security measures in the area, including roadblocks and searches for potential accomplices.
Criticism & Opposition
While the incident has drawn support for Nehama's actions, there are ongoing concerns regarding the rising violence and the impact of military operations on Palestinian communities. Critics argue that the escalation of military presence and restrictions on movement exacerbate tensions and contribute to further violence.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
Reports on the condition of the injured teenagers vary slightly, with some sources indicating differing assessments of their injuries. Additionally, the motivations behind the attack and the broader implications for Israeli-Palestinian relations remain subjects of debate among analysts and officials.
Verbatim Quotes
- “I passed by the junction and heard the sound of a collision behind me,” — Col. (res.) Hezi Nehama
- “I kept shouting ‘stop!’ and he didn’t stop. So I fired at the center of his body, and he fell,” — Col. (res.) Hezi Nehama
- “I salute him! Once again it has been proven — a personal weapon in the right hands saves lives!” — Itamar Ben Gvir, National Security Minister
This incident underscores the ongoing cycle of violence in the region and the complexities surrounding security measures and civilian safety.
