Three buses exploded near Tel Aviv on Thursday in what Israeli police are calling a suspected coordinated terror attack, according to the country’s Police Spokesperson’s Unit.
The explosions occurred in Bat Yam, a city just south of Tel Aviv along Israel’s southern coast. The buses were empty and parked in separate lots about 500 meters apart, according to the mayor of Bat Yam. Fortunately, no injuries were reported.
Police later discovered an undetonated bomb on a separate bus, adding to the initial chaos. While earlier reports suggested two unexploded devices, officials later confirmed there was only one additional bomb.
The explosive devices resembled those previously found in the West Bank, the police spokesman said. A handwritten note found with one of the bombs read, “Revenge against the Tulkarm camp,” referencing the Israeli military operation in the West Bank last week.
Planned for a Crowded Rush Hour?
Sources familiar with the preliminary investigation revealed that officials believe the attack was intended for Friday morning, aiming to target the pre-Sabbath rush when buses are typically crowded. However, at least one bomb detonated earlier than planned, possibly disrupting the full scale of the attack.
“Multiple reports have been received of explosions involving several buses at different locations in Bat Yam. Large police forces are at the scenes, searching for suspects. Police bomb disposal units are scanning for additional suspicious objects,” the Israeli Police Spokesperson’s Unit said.
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Ongoing Investigation & Security Response
The Israel Security Agency (Shin Bet) is now leading the investigation alongside local police. Security forces are sweeping the area for additional explosive devices and have urged the public to stay alert and avoid the affected zones.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is receiving regular updates from his military secretary, according to a statement released by the Prime Minister’s Office.
The motive behind the attack remains under investigation, but authorities are treating it as a premeditated act of terror.
