A gunman opened fire in a crowded market in central Israel this afternoon, killing one person and wounding five others before being shot dead by police. Sources confirm the attacker, identified as a 27-year-old Palestinian from the West Bank, used an M16 assault rifle in the assault. The United Kingdom has condemned the violence, with the Foreign Secretary calling for calm.
This is a developing story. The shooting occurred in the city of Rishon LeZion, south of Tel Aviv, at approximately 2 p.m.
local time. Witnesses described scenes of panic as shoppers fled for cover. Police say the attacker was neutralised by officers on the scene.
Israeli security forces have launched an investigation, and the wounded have been transported to local hospitals. The UK government issued a statement expressing solidarity with Israel and urging all parties to refrain from escalation. The attack comes amid heightened tensions in the region.
More details to follow.
