6:40am.. Another devastating bus attack. Once again, the number 18 bus.
6:45am.. According to security forces, at 6:27am this morning, a powerful blast went off on the number 18 bus making its way from the Katamon neighborhood of Jerusalem to the Central Bus Station.
According to police, the attack took place on Jaffa Street near the Central Bus Station.
Magen David Adom (Israel's Emergency Medical Service) has confirmed that 11 persons are reported dead and 14 have been transported to Jerusalem Hospitals, 4 in critical condition.
This bus appears to be a regular length bus and not an accordion bus as was the case last week according to Galei Tzahal (Army Radio). Channel 1 TV News is reporting that the bus was indeed an accordion bus as was the case last week.
This attack occurred very close to Jerusalem City Hall.
Police are clearing the area and are frantically searching for a possible second explosive device.
SNS will provide you with additional details as they become available.
7:05am.. Police are stating with certainty that this morning's explosion was indeed a suicide bomber. Fourteen victims have been taken from the blast site by EMS (Emergency Medical Service) personnel. Some are already undergoing emergency surgery to save their lives.
Six of the victims, listed in moderate to serious condition have been taken to the Hadassah Hospital Trauma Center in Ein Kerem. Other victims have been transported to Shaare Tzedek Medical Center.
7:07am.. Once again, a Spokesman for Israel's Magen David Adom (EMS) has confirmed that eleven persons have been killed. The death toll is expected to continue to rise.
According to eyewitnesses, the entire rear-half and roof of the bus was blown away. Witnesses are stating that this morning's site appears more devastating than last Sunday's blast.
Today, marks the end of the Shiva, the one-week mourning period for last Sunday morning's victims. Memorial services were planned throughout Jerusalem this morning for last week's victims.
7:10am.. Police are now beginning to rule out the possibility of a second explosive device in the area. Intensive searches were underway by bomb experts and other specially trained personnel.
The blast took place very close to the Central Post Office on Jaffa Street in the heart of downtown Jerusalem. The blast several blocks away from the new City hall Building. In a brief, Galei Tzahal/Army Radio) interview, Mayor Ehud Olmert stated that he was just devastated to have received this morning's tragic news.
Today's blast follows last night's announcements by government officials that the closure on Judea, Samaria and Gaza would be partially lifted. The government announced that persons seeking medical attention, those needing to travel via Ben Gurion International Airport, and other "special cases" would be permitted into "Israel proper."
Following the blast, the bus kept traveling for a short time according to Jerusalem Police Commander Arye Amit.
Amit stated that police are checking how it is, that one week following several suicide blasts, another terrorist managed to once again carry out another deadly attack.
Despite some reports of uncertainty, an Egged Bus Cooperative Spokesman has confirmed that the bus involved was the number 18 line.
7:19am.. Several tens of passers-by have gathered and are shouting, "Peres resign, we don't want you anymore."
Members of the Chesed Shel Emes (Burial Society) have already arrived on the scene. Once again, the most difficult task of assembling body parts begins.
The Burial Society Members have begun to search for remains of the victims of the blast.
Mayor Olmert has asked the public to refrain from the spontaneous demonstrations and shouts against Prime Minister Peres while the emergency workers are still attempting to control this morning's disaster scene.
7:37am.. The anger being expressed by passers-by and citizens is more apparent this morning. Following last week's attacks, which have left over 25 persons dead and dozens injured, it appears that the population is no longer willing to tolerate another week of bloodshed.
Police Chief Assaf Chafetz is on the scene of the blast. The site is one which is beyond description. The bus stands, a smoldering skeleton. The entire roof and rear portion have vanished. The street is full of scattered, charred and smoldering bus parts and limbs. Windows throughout the area were blown out from the magnitude of the blast.
7:42am.. President Ezer Weizman has made an appeal on national television for citizens to exercise restraint. He stated, "We are at war. Please, everyone must exercise restraint at this most sensitive time, prior to elections."
7:43am.. Israel's Kol Yisrael Radio has reported that the death toll has risen to twenty. This number is unconfirmed at this time.
7:44am.. Channel 1 TV is confirming the number of twenty dead. Apparently, this information is being provided by Israel Police.
7:48.. Prime Minister Peres is arriving at the scene under very heavy security .
7:52am.. Galei Tzahal (Army Radio)
The Ministry of Education has announced that all parties throughout the nation's schools for the upcoming Purim Holiday have been canceled in light of this morning's tragic suicide bombing attack.
Prime Minister Shimon Peres was escorted away from the blast sight several minutes after his arrival. He was greeted by angry shouts of, "Peres get out!. Peres, resign."
Hadassah Hospital Trauma Center in Jerusalem's Ein Kerem neighborhood has reported receiving six victims. Three of the six are reported in very critical condition. Two have already been taken into emergency surgery.
7:57am.. Galei Tzahal/army Radio An anonymous caller spoke with the station's Arabic News correspondent. He stated that the military wing of Hamas, the Izzadin El Kassim terrorists, were responsible for this morning's attack.
Mayor Ehud Olmert has announced that until additional emergency phone numbers are established, concerned relatives and friends may call the City's number "106" dispatcher. This number is only good within the "02" area code.
Heavy rain is falling on Jerusalem as the Burial Society is attempting to cover the remains of the dead and gather the scattered body parts. Security officials are trying to calm the growing crowd who are still shouting anti-Peres slogans.
8:00am.. Galei Tzahal/Army Radio - Attack Update
It appears that the bomb was placed in the second half of the bus. Hadassah Trauma Center in Ein Kerem received six victims. 3 were in very critical condition and 3 in critical condition. ShaareTzedek Medical center received one victim. Hadassah Hospital in Mount Scopus received "several" victims.
President Ezer Weizman has requested an immediate halt to the peace talks with the PLO. He stated that we are in the midst of a war. He called on all citizens to exercise restraint.
Brig-Gen. Pressler, the Advisor to Prime Minister Peres on Terror, has called on all IDF soldiers around the country, who are traveling to and from their bases, to be extra aware and look out for a possible second attack.
Hadassah Trauma Center in Ein Kerem has released an emergency number for concerned persons to call. The multi-line number is 02-430770.
SNS will provide you with additional details as they become available.
8:21am.. Many families who spent last week observing the Shiva Mourning period for their lost loved ones are now concerned once again, hearing of the attack on the Number 18 Bus.
8:22am.. Channel 1 TV News Deputy Minister of Defense Ori Orr, stated that the war against terror is not going to be accomplished by increased security on buses, although he stated this too was necessary. Orr stated that the terrorists and their leaders must be taken out. He stated the PLO Autonomy must also reach out and apprehend these terrorists wherever they may be.
A tow truck has succeeded in removing the remains of the roof from the bus. The roof was blown away from the bus following the blast. Emergency workers are being hampered by the heavy rain falling this morning.
Sanitation crews are out in numbers attempting to clean up the area of the blast. The Burial Society Members are continuing to search for body parts and bloodied clothing, so that they may be buried in accordance with Jewish Law.
The Spokesman for the Israel Police Department has confirmed that 20 persons were killed. The wounded, taken to Shaare Tzedek Medical Center and Hadassah Hospital Trauma Center, are reported in serious condition.
In Shaare Tzedek- One victim received by the Emergency Department is in moderate condition.
In Hadassah - Six victims received. Three are "mortally wounded," two of which are undergoing surgery. Three are in critical condition.
It appears that the injuries sustained are serious burns and injuries from the impact of the devastating blast, in this morning's slaughter on a civilian public bus.
8:32am.. Galei Tzahal/Army Radio Blast Update
o The blast occurred at the intersections of Jaffa Road and Queen Shlomtzion Street, at approximately 6:27am.
o Police have confirmed at least 20 persons have been killed.
o At least 14 persons were injured - most seriously.
o The Izzadin El Kassim wing of Hamas has taken credit.
o Israel's Magen David Adom (Emergency Medical Service) has made an emergency appeal for blood. Following last week's three deadly attacks and this morning's slaughter, blood is in short supply.
o All Purim Holiday celebrations throughout the nation's schools and the IDF have been canceled.
o President Ezer Weizman has called for the immediate cessation of all talks with the PLO. The President has called on the entire country to exercise restraint and not to aggravate this most difficult situation. The President has called on members of the Israeli political Left and Right to sit and meet, to reach a working plan to deal with this situation. The President stated that we are at war.
o The government will meet at 9:00am, this morning. At the top of the agenda is the plan for total separation of "Israel proper" and the PLO-controlled areas.
o Members of the Burial Society are finishing their work of collecting limbs and other remains for burial, as is required by Jewish Law.
o Brig.-Gen. Pressler, the Prime Minister's Advisor on Terror, has put out a nationwide alert to all IDF soldiers to be on alert for a possible second attack.
Today, Sunday, is a regular work day in Israel. This morning's rush hour in Jerusalem came to a standstill following the suicide attack, in which at least 20 innocent persons were slaughtered by Hamas terrorists. SNS will provide you with additional details as they become available.
The next Update will be published in several hours, with a more in-depth report with additional confirmed details. The country remains on high alert. People are fearful of the possibility of attempts at additional attacks. The rain continues to fall. The most joyous holiday of Purim will be a most saddened one, following the events in Israel over the past seven days.
Over 45 persons have been killed in four attacks, and over 100 persons were injured.
NY City Rally We have received a bulletin from the Judean Voice, that a demonstration is being called for 3:30am this morning, in New York City.
Activists in New York are calling on concerned persons to participate in a demonstration in front of the Israeli Consulate at 2nd Avenue and 42nd Street, in downtown Manhattan. Persons attending are also requested to bring prayer shawls and phylacteries. Morning prayer services are planned in front of the Consulate Building. For additional information. One may call 212-259-3510. (SNS..3/3).
Forensic Institute
Close to twenty (20) bodies have already been brought to the Abu Kabir Forensic Institute. The work of identification of the badly burned and dismembered bodies is underway. (Galei Tzahal/.Army Radio..3/3..8:30am).
Yassir Arafat "This is a terrible tragedy. I am ashamed. This must be stopped." (Galei Tzahal/Army Radio..3/3…9:00am).
Prime Minister Peres "Despite the drop in public opinion polls and despite the terrorism, the peace talks will move ahead." (Galei Tzahal/Army Radio..3/2..7:00pm).
MK (Labor) Ra'anan Cohen stated that additional security personnel from IDF combat units are not necessary.
This comes in response to the call for another 800 persons to be added to the security force being designed to guard the nation's public buses. Internal Security Minister (Labor) Moshe Shachal has called for the enlistment of approximately 800 new troops, to be comprised of persons who have served in elite IDF units in the past. Cohen stated that the IDF has enough manpower to handle this assignment and there is no need to enlist new personnel. (Galei Tzahal/Army Radio..3/2..7:00am).
Fifteen Years in Jail
Yassir Arafat has announced that any residents of the PLO-controlled areas caught with illegal guns face up to 15 years in prison. (Galei Tzahal/Army Radio ..3/2 ..7:00am).
MDA Statement
A Spokesman for Magen David Adom (Israel's Emergency Medical Service) has announced that two paramedic advanced life support units, ten basic life support units, and one mobile first aid station responded to this morning's deadly blast in Jerusalem.
The Spokesman also made an appeal for blood donations. The blood bank toll-free phone number for additional information is: 177-022-5911. (Channel 1 TV New s..3/3..9:17am).
Memorial Service A memorial service for last Sunday's victims of the Jerusalem suicide bombing, in which over 25 persons were slaughtered, is planned for tonight.
The national Action Committee and the Arab Terror Victims organization has called for the memorial service to take place near the Central Bus Station in Jerusalem, the site of last week's deadly attack. (SNS..3/2).
Cytryn's Letter
Following this morning's suicide bus attack in Jerusalem, the parents of former administrative prisoner Shmuel Cytryn have sent a letter to President Ezer Weizman.
Arnold and Marilyn Cytryn said the following in their letter to the President: During these times of increased terrorism, the General Security Service (GSS), under the direction of its new leader Ami Ayalon, has better things to do than concern itself with the "dangerous settlers" like our son Shmuel.
"With a government that has so many resources in order to engage in such questionable politically partisan and bureaucratic enterprises at taxpayer's expense, while hundreds of convicted terrorists with blood on their hands are released, it is no wonder that there are no longer resources to protect citizens as once was the case. Why our priorities have been switched I this manner by the 'New Israel' deserves some in-depth investigative analysis. When we came to this country for ideological reasons, we knew there might be dangers - but not from our own people.'" (SNS ..3/3 ..9:40am).
Emergency Numbers
The police have released the following emergency numbers for anyone trying to locate a friend or loved one: Area code "02" 391212, 391213, 391214, 391217. (Channel 1 TV News..3/3..9:45am).
Spontaneous Demonstration
Thousands of persons are gathering in downtown Jerusalem as the atmosphere begins to heat up. Anti-Peres and anti-government slogans are being shouted by what appears to be an angry group. Police are on hand to maintain order. (Galei Tzahal/Army Radio..3/3..9:50am).
Blood Bank
Magen David Adom reports that a large response is been received to appeals for blood donations. At the Jerusalem Blood Bank, approximately 150 persons are standing in line to give blood. (Galei Tzahal/Army Radio..3/3…9:54am).
Who Was The Bomber?
The identity of this morning's suicide bomber is unknown. Security forces are speculating that even if he came from Judea, Samaria or Gaza, it appears that he received some assistance from Arab residents of East Jerusalem. (Channel 1 TV News..3/3/..9:58am).
Inspectors Arrive
Government adjusters have already arrived at the scene of this morning's slaughter to begin the work of calculating the damage done to nearby stores and buildings. First reports have stated that damages are "extensive." (Channel 1 TV News..3/3..9:58am).
Senior Police Officials
Senior Police department Officials are making their way to Jerusalem to meet with senior security officials. According to reports released by Police Chief Assaf Chafetz, many "new changes are going to be implemented." The Police Chief would not elaborate but he stated that Prime Minister / Defense Minister Peres has made many decisions that will immediately affect the situation around Jerusalem and the entire country.
Chafetz stated that serious changes will be made immediately, to get a hold on the situation. (Channel 1 TV News..3/3..10:01am).
Meetings
Prime Minister Shimon Peres is meeting with the heads of all parties to discuss the situation. Peres will be meeting with Likud Head Binyamin Netanyahu in approximately one hour.
Some reports of the possibility of an "Emergency Government" have leaked out. This is unconfirmed at this time. (Galei Tzahal/Army Radio..3/3..10:00am).
Binyamin Ben Eliezer Minister of Housing (Labor)
Binyamin Ben Eliezer has called for an immediate cessation of talks with the PLO and a tightening of the closure on Judea, Samaria and Gaza. )Galei Tzahal/Army Radio..3/3…10:00am).
PLO Radio
Since this morning's attack in Jerusalem, it has been reported that PLO Radio has been condemning the attack. (Galei 'Tzahal/Army Radio..3/3..10:00am).
Minister Sneh
Health Minister (Labor) Ephraim Sneh was interviewed this morning by Israeli Radio, as well as CNN.
On Israel Radio, the Minister stated that the peace process must stop immediately. Ten minutes later, when interviewed on CNN, he stated the peace process must continue. (SNS..9:41am).
Police Notification
Police Commander Arye Amit has stated that the police already have received information regarding anti-government demonstrations planned for tonight. Amit requested that all citizens remain orderly and not attempt to disrupt the order. He added if this is not the case, the police will do whatever necessary to maintain order. (Channel 1 TV News..3/3..10:22am).
Police are now reporting the death toll in this morning's attack to be 18 and not the "confirmed" number of 20 given out earlier this morning by official police sources. (Channel 1 TV News..3/3..11:30am).
Blood Bank
Hundreds of citizens have turned out in response to the appeal for blood donations made this morning.
At MDA's Blood Bank in Jerusalem, the crowd stands in the rain, patiently, until they can get inside the building to donate a unit of blood.
According to an MDA Spokesman, over 200 units of blood were used this morning, as a result of this morning's attack. (Channel 1 TV News..3/3..11:45am).
Memorial Services
Memorial services are going on in Jerusalem's Cemeteries, following the completion of the one-week Shiva, the mourning period for the dead.
One family, having completed the Shiva for their departed relative, has gone directly to the Shamgar Funeral home to inquire as to the names of the victims of today's blast. They are now heading to the Abu Kabir Forensic Institute. They fear that another relative may have been among today's victims. (Channel 1 TV News..3/3..11:40am).
Injury Update
According to a Spokesman for Hadassah Hospital in Ein Kerem, all of the six victims who were received by the hospital are in serious to very critical condition. (Channel 1 TV News..3/3..11:59am).
Abu Kabir
The Abu Kabir Forensic Institute has reported receiving either 19 or 20 bodies, including one believed to be the suicide bomber. This number contradicts the latest statement made by Police, that 18 persons were killed. (Channel 1 TV News..3/3.. 12:02pm).
Number 25 Another victim of the terrorist attack from last Sunday morning in Jerusalem has died of his injuries.
Vail Kvassama, 23, a resident of east Jerusalem, has died of his injuries. He sustained head injuries in the attack and succumbed to them on Saturday morning, in Hadassah Hospital in Ein Kerem, Jerusalem. He was scheduled to be married in less than one month. His body was placed in state in the Al Aksa Mosque, on Jerusalem's Temple Mount. From there, it was taken for burial in the Moslem Cemetery in Jerusalem's Old City. (Ma'ariv Newspaper..3/3..Page 4).
AMCHA Demonstration
A demonstration will be held outside of the PLO Mission to the United Nations, located at Park Avenue and East 65th Street, in New York City. The demonstration will take place at 12:00pm.
Leaders of the Coalition for Jewish Concerns-Amcha announced a memorial vigil-demonstration on Sunday, for the latest 20 Israelis killed in a suicide bus bomb attack in Jerusalem.
"We place the blame for this latest round of terror with Arafat," noted CJC-Amcha President, Rabbi Avi Weiss. "The PLO covenant has not been amended; Arafat paid a condolence call to Yechi Ayyash, the "Engineer," and he repeatedly tells his people that Jerusalem will be taken with 'blood and fire.' All this inspires violence." (SNS-NY..3/3).
Jewish Attacks
Unconfirmed reports of several attacks against Arabs in Jerusalem have come in. It has been reported that Arabs were attacked by angry Jewish pedestrians. No additional information is available at this time. (SNS/Jerusaelm..3/3).
The Terrorist
The terrorist who carried out this morning's suicide bombing, in which at least 18 persons were slaughtered, was Islam Abu Abidu, 24, of the Hevron area.
An anonymous caller, identifying himself as an Izzadin El Kassim spokesman stated that this is the name of the bomber. He is a known Hamas terrorist from the Hevron area according to sources in Hevron.
His family stated that he has not been home since last week. (Channel 1 TV News.. 3/3..2:25pm).
President Weizman President
Weizman has called for some immediate steps to be taken following this morning's attack. He stated that the government has a responsibility to restore the citizen's confidence in the government and security authorities.
Some of the demands made by President Weizman are:
o Arafat's immediate action regarding the sections of the PNC calling for Israel's destruction.
o A postponement of the planned IDF redeployment form Hevron, scheduled for March 28th.
o A halting of the scheduled talks regarding the final status of Jerusalem. (Channel 1 TV News..3/3..12:30pm).
Prime Minister Peres
The Prime Minister stated that he will make no official announcements before the scheduled press conference at 2:00pm.
Peres did say however, that despite the statements made by President Weizman, the peace process will move ahead. (Channel 1 TV News..3/3..12:35pm).
The following information was obtained from a Special Channel 1 TV Report that was aired at 2:00pm, 30 minutes before Prime Minister Peres will hold his press conference.
The injured
Shaare Tzedek Medical Center- 1 victim - and is reported in moderate to serious condition.
Hadassah Hospital, Ein Kerem- 6 victims- all are reported in serious to very critical condition. The driver of the bus has come out of surgery and is in critical condition. According to Professor Avi Rivkin, the Director of the Hadassah Trauma Center, several patients are hanging in between life and death at this time.
The Blast
The information is still unconfirmed but initial reports state that the explosive was larger than last Sunday morning's 10 kilogram bomb on the same bus line.
Forensic Institute
Many concerned persons are waiting impatiently outside the Abu Kabir Forensic Institute for news concerning the victims. According to information released by the Institute, five of the bodies have been identified. Among the people waiting outside is one family, who just completed the seven day Shiva mourning period for a lost relative in last Sunday's explosion on the number 18 bus.
Hamas
The Hamas terror organization has published a new flier stating, that with this morning's suicide bomb in which at least 18 persons were slaughtered, they have concluded their revenge attacks for the killing of Yechi Ayyash, AKA "The Engineer." Hamas has promised a cessation of attacks against Israel for at least 90 days, if Israel agrees to cease the manhunt for the wanted Hamas terrorists and moves ahead with the peace process. Hamas is also demanding the release of all terrorists being held in Israeli prisons.
The Dead
Two names have been cleared for publication by the censor. They are both IDF soldiers. 1- Sgt. Yoni Levy, 21, of Jerusalem. He will be laid to rest in the Mount Herzl Military Cemetery today at 6:45pm. 2- Sgt. Chaim Amedi, 19. He will be laid to rest in the Mount Herzl Military Cemetery at 5:00pm today.
Responses
Likud - The leadership of the Likud Party, together with their coalition partner Raful Eitan of Tzomet, are meeting at this time to discuss what steps they feel must be taken in reaction to this morning's suicide attack.
MK (Tzomet) Raful Eitan - "The closure is not a proper solution to terrorism. It is a defensive measure. We need to hunt down the terrorists and destroy their infrastructure. We already had a closure and a Green Line. They are not the answer. I am calling for a National Unity Emergency Government. The emergency government will be comprised of military and anti-terror experts across the political spectrum. Its job will be solely to deal with and eliminate terrorism."
Yassir Arafat - "I condemn the attack in the strongest words and offer my condolences to the families of the dead and injured. We will do our utmost to stop the terrorism. This is an attack against the entire peace process."
The King of Jordan and the President of Egypt also expressed their sorrow over this morning's deadly attack.
The Bus No security personnel were on the number 18 bus this morning. Police are investigating the situation surrounding the morning's tragic events.
Jaffa Road & Queen Shlomtzion Street Thousands of persons are standing at the scene of this morning's attack. Signs against the government and the continued terrorism are visible. The mood of the crowd fluctuates between angry and solemn. A large force of police, mounted units, Yasam Tactical Units, Border Police and other forces are on hand to maintain order. The police are said to be exhibiting "relative patience" with the masses of pedestrians at the scene.
Despite the statements regarding the Police Department's acting with restraint, on Channel 1 TV, we see the police manhandling and pushing the large crowds of demonstrators. They do not appear to be too sympathetic to the pain of the masses.
Mount Herzl
As we wait for the Prime Minister to address the nation, memorial services for the IDF soldiers killed in last Sunday's number 18 bus attack are going on. Families and friends of the fallen are attending the services in the Mount Herzl Military Cemetery in Jerusalem.
Prime Minster Peres Addressees the Nation
"The answer is not going to be tears or demonstrations. The solution will come after the events are analyzed properly and the appropriate actions taken. Hamas wants to destroy the peace process but we will not permit this. This is being treated as a state of war in every respect. The cessation and elimination of terror has been placed as the single highest priority of this government. All our resources will be combined and will work in harmony to achieve this goal. We have decided on many things that will bring us towards this goal."
1. Israel is declaring war against Hamas, Islamic Jihad and all other terrorists. 2. The number of security troops in Jerusalem is going to be raised. This is going on as the press conference continues. 3. IDF soldiers and police will patrol hitching posts and bus stops. All persons are subject to inspection. This includes soldiers. 4. Increased effort regarding the gathering of intelligence. This is the first line of defense. We need accurate and comprehensive intelligence. 5. All lawful measures at the government's disposal will be taken to implement punitive actions against the families of the suicide terrorists. The "mourning tents", in which the families receive visitors following the attacks, will end. 6. The homes of terrorists will be sealed up, and if legally permitted, destroyed. 7. A Bus Commando Unit will be established. The unit will be made up of 800 persons who have served in elite IDF units. This elite force will ensure the security of passengers on the nation's buses. 8. Total separation between Israel and the PLO-controlled autonomy areas. Check points will be established, and the entry and exit of all persons and vehicles in and out of "Israel proper" will be closely monitored. Anyone, Jew or Arab, violating this, will be punished to the full extent of the law. 9. The PLO has been presented with three demands to be carried out unconditionally and immediately. A)Hamas, Islamic Jihad and other terror groups are to be declared illegal by the PLO Authority. B) The terrorist and all others will be stripped of illegal weapons. C) The leaders of the terrorists organizations will be placed under arrest and not permitted to continue to roam freely.
NIS 300 million has been allocated for the implementation of these decisions. Of the 300 million, NIS 260 million to establish a total separation between Israel and the PLO. NIS 40 million to set up the Bus Commando Unit.
"This has received the approval of the government and stands as the highest priority of the nation" added Prime Minister Peres.
3:10pm.. Jaffa Road
The crowd near the scene of the blast has grown significantly. Many demonstrators have begun to sit down in an attempt to block the streets. Shouts of "death to Arabs" can be heard. Several demonstrators are attempting to get into the Old city via the Jaffa Gate, but police are not permitting them to enter.
Police are attempting to maintain order, as the crowd continues to grow and becomes increasingly angry.
England Mourns
The Chief Rabbi in England has called on all synagogues to hold a memorial service to those killed in the recent wave of bombings, 30 minutes before Megillah reading Monday night.
The Megillah (Book of Esther) is read on the Holiday of Purim. (SNS/England..3/3).
Apprehended
Two Arabs, residents of Anabata, in the Shomron, were arrested by police, Border Police and IDF soldiers after attempting to purchase weapons from a Jewish resident of an undisclosed community in the Shomron.
The Arabs approached the Jewish resident about three weeks ago, requesting to purchase weaponry that are capable of firing 9mm bullets.
The "settler" reported the incident to police, and they worked together with the Jewish resident to arrange the deal. The police were waiting in the background to apprehend the Arabs. (Yediot Achronot Newspaper..3/3..Page 14).
Peace Watch Report - February 29th
The PLO Election Appeals Court in Ramallah has rejected all seven cases brought before the Court, regarding possible election violations. The Court did not permit hearings or allow any evidence to be presented.
According to Peace Watch, the refusal to hear the appeals was unfair, contrary to PLO Election Law, and inconsistent with democratic principles. (Peace Watch is an independent non-partisan organization monitoring the implementation of the agreements signed by Israel and the PLO).
Petition Against The Attorney General
The Shalom L'Dorot (Peace for Generations) Organization has filed an appeal with the Supreme Court.
The petition to the High Court was against the state Attorney General, Michael Ben-Yair. According to the Shalom L'Dorot Press Release, the Attorney General has failed to officially request the PLO Autonomy government to apprehend the terrorists responsible for the suicide bus bombing on the number 26 bus, approximately 5 months ago. Supreme Court Justice Yaakov Kedmi has ordered a hearing as soon as possible and has ordered the Attorney General to answer the charges leveled against him.
Shalom L'Dorot also maintains that since it is really unknown at this time who is behind the number 18 bus bombing of Sunday, February 25th, it is entirely possible that the terrorists in question had a hand in the planning of this attack as well.
In September 1995, the Attorney General gave a written guarantee that a formal request for the arrest of AbedEl- Mag'id-Dodin and Rushdi El-Hativ would be executed. This was in response to a Supreme Court petition brought by Shalom L'Dorot on August 31, 1995. To date, the attorney General has failed to issue the order. This has brought about the second petition.
For additional information, one may contact: Shalom L'Dorot..972-2-300123(Daniel Yosef or Shimshon Yishaiyahu). (SNS..3/3).
The Bomb
Police have stated that the bomb used in this morning's attack was at least as powerful as the bomb used in last Sunday's Number 18 bus attack. The bomb was also packed with steel nails and metallic balls, to increase the devastation caused by the deadly explosion. (Channel 2 TV News..3/3…7:30pm).
Abu Kabir
All of the bodies have been identified. There are 19 bodies. 18 victims and the remains of the suicide terrorist.
Of the 18 victims, 5 were Romanian citizens living in Israel. They obtained work permits and were here temporarily for job related reasons. One victim was a tourist from Romania and one victim was a tourist from Ethiopia. The names and details of the dead will be published in future Updates. (SNS..3/3).
Jerusalem Under Siege
According to Police Chief Assaf Chafetz, 1,200 Border Policeman are being deployed throughout the nation' s capital, along with 1,000 IDF soldiers. Jerusalem has become an armed camp. The deployment of the security troops is going on this evening. (Channel 2 TV News..3/3..7:30pm).
The Injured
The victim in Shaare Tzedek Medical Center is reported in moderate condition.
In Hadassah Ein Kerem, six victims remain from this morning's attack. According to Professor Avi Rifkin, Head of the Hadassah Trauma Center, one of the victims is showing a slight improvement since the morning. The remaining five are in serious to very critical condition.
Professor Rivkin added that the families of the victims of last Sunday's attack, who remain at the bedside of their loved ones, are giving strength to the families of today's victims. (Channel 2 TV News..3/3..7:30pm).
Katamon
The Katamon section of Jerusalem is in mourning. Once again, it has lost many of its residents. Four of this morning's victims lived on the same street in the Katamon section of town. A total of eight residents of Katamon were killed in today's blast. (Channel 2 TV News..3/3..7:30pm).
Demonstrations
Spontaneous demonstrations have been reported in several locations this evening. At the Patt Junction, near the southern Gilo neighborhood of Jerusalem, several hundred residents held a memorial at the busy intersection. Some demonstrators succeeded in evading police and entered into the Old City. It is reported that they turned over carts and caused damage to property belonging to Arab residents.
The crowd at the site of today's blast appears to continue to grow. A lot of shouting and anti-government slogans are heard, but the crowd has remained relatively orderly. (Channel 2 TV News..3/3..7:30pm).
The Real Deal
Jerusalem Police Commander Arye Amit has reiterated, that despite talk about the new Public Bus Commando Unit, it would be less than realistic for anyone to believe that a force of 800 security persons can be assembled overnight. Amit further stated that even after the establishment of the force, there will not be sufficient manpower to place security agents on every bus in the country. (Channel 2 TV News..3/3 ..8:15pm).
Funeral Details
As reported earlier, (Update 968), two IDF soldiers were laid to rest in Jerusalem's Mount Herzl Military Cemetery this evening. They were buried in the row where, just last week, six IDF soldiers were buried from the number 18 bus attack. (Channel 2 TV News..3/3..8:15pm).
Anti-government Fliers
Fliers are being distributed throughout Jerusalem by anti-government activists. The fliers state that, "The architects of Oslo bring us engineers. The fliers imply very strongly that the government is directly responsible for the "slaughter" in Jerusalem. (SNS..3/3).
Statement from Hevron
Noam Arnon, the Spokesman for the Hevron Jewish Community issued the following statement in response to Prime Minister Peres' press conference this afternoon.
"The threats of sealing and destroying the homes of terrorists and their families is not a serious punitive action. The Hamas and other terror groups immediate finance the rebuilding of new homes for these people. (SNS;Hevron..3/3).
Sharp Drops Due to Terror Attack - By Merav Arlozorov
Sharp drops were posted Sunday on the stock exchange in reaction to the terror attack. The Mishtanim Index dropped 1.62% to 207.61 points. The Maof Index dropped 1.52% to 216.3 points. There was a gain in commercial turnovers, which rose to $29 million (NIS 90 million).
Trading on the stock exchange opened in the morning hours with large supply, close to NIS 100 million, and middling to sharp rate drops were posted throughout the day both in the Mishtanim and Karam Indices.
Israel Chemicals shares stood out with nearly an NIS 4 million turnover and a 0.5% drop. Teva dropped 1%, Bezeq dropped 2%, Koor dropped 2.5% and IDB Holdings dropped more than 2%.
On the bonds market, index-linked bonds posted middling increases, while middling to sharp increases were posted in shekel channels and mixed trade with a downward trend in foreign currency linked bonds.
March 4, 1996.. 13 Adar 5756..Number 970 ..Update from Israel
The Victims
Uzi Cohen, age 41 - He was a Border Policeman. He leaves behind his wife and four children. His brother, a Police Department bomb expert, identified the remains at the Abu Kabir Forensic Institute.
Stevens Daavi, Age 23 - She came to Israel from Ethiopia approximately three years ago. She lived alone in Jerusalem.
Raiya Davshvilli, age 55 - She came to Israel approximately two years ago. She lived in the Katamon section of Jerusalem with her daughter and son-in-law. She was on the fatal number 18 bus last Sunday as well. She escaped death after realizing she had forgotten her keys. She got off the bus to return home and missed the blast.
Georgian Yunan, age 39 - He lived in the Old city of Jerusalem. He regularly visited the Protestant Church, of which he was a member, on Sundays.
Angel Siriiani, age 45 - Se lived in Beit J'ala. She worked as a nurse. She leaves behind two sons, two daughters, and three grandchildren.. Her youngest daughter was scheduled to be married in two months. The wedding has ben postponed. She will be laid to rest today in Beit Lechem (Bethlehem).
Sgt. Yoni Levy, age 21 - Both Benny Levi and his son Yoni boarded the number 18 bus yesterday. Mr. Levy got off in the German Colony, not realizing he would not see his son any more. Yoni was the youngest of six children. He was a graduate of the Beit Chinuch School. (Four victims of the last week's terrorism were graduates of Beit Chinuch). He was scheduled to complete his IDF service in two months.
Naomi Zargari, age 66 - She was known in the Patt section of Jerusalem as the "Grandmother of the neighborhood". She spent most of her time with her grandchildren. She leaves behind her husband, two sons, one daughter, and four grandchildren.
Maiya Birkan, age 59 - She was a new immigrant from the former USSR. She lived in Jerusalem's Katamon section. Last Sunday, (Feb. 25th), she missed the number 18 bus that exploded near the Central Bus Station. Yesterday, she boarded the bus to get to work. She worked taking care of an elderly woman in the Bayit Vegan section of Jerusalem. She lives behind a husband, and two children. She will be laid to rest today in Jerusalem.
Sgt. Chaim Amedi, age 19 - He served in the IDF Tank Corps. He overslept and missed the bus he was planning to take. Last week, when the bus blew up, he called his mother 15 minutes later to tell her that he was okay. He was to celebrate his 19th birthday in 6 weeks. He enlisted in the IDF three months ago.
Anna Sangoloff, age 36 - She lived in Jerusalem's Katamon neighborhood. She was the only daughter to parents who survived the holocaust. She moved to Israel, from the former USSR, 5 years ago. She was employed by the Ramada Hotel. She leaves behind her husband and two daughters, two years and 10 months.
Gavriel Shamshilshvilli, age 42 - Just one week ago, the family buried Simon Brikashvilli, the aunt of Gavriel's wife. Now, seven days later, tragedy hits the same family again. Yesterday, they got up from their Shiva, the seven-day mourning period, to receive the tragic news.
Shem-Tov Shiyak, age 63 - Shem-Tov and his wife Sarah decided to buy burial plots last month. Now, less than four weeks later, Shem-Tov is laid to rest. Among the papers found by the burial society in the wreckage of the bus, was a receipt for NIS 16,000 for burial plots in Jerusalem's Givat Shaul Cemetery. The plots were in Bloc 1, Section 16. He leaves behind his wife, 4 daughters and 8 grandchildren. (Yediot Achronot Newspaper..3/4)
Valerie Kartzien - No information available at this time. (Ma'ariv Newspaper. .3/4 ..Front Page)
Five of the victims were Romanian workers living in Israel. They were: Domitro Kukarosko, Marian Grafan, Meritzia J'afa, Daniel Petkkana, Dominik Lunka. (Yediot Achronot Newspaper..3/4)
Note- Name spelling and details vary with the different major newspapers. We have quoted the source for all names listed. According to Professor Avi Rifkin, Head of the Hadassah Hospital Trauma Unit, all of the injured victims remain in serious to very critical condition. One showed signs of slight improvement.
One victim is listed in moderate to serious condition in Shaare Tzedek Medical Center. (Galei Tzahal/Army Radio..3/4).
The Arabic daily, An-Nahar, retorted in a frustrated and sarcastic editorial: "Peres is not asking for much from the Palestinian Authority -- just destroy the infrastructure of Hamas, as if Hamas was a club that can be closed and dissolved in a moment. . . . Hamas is a mass movement, and it will disappear only when Israel stops its hostility toward us." (NY Times Newspaper..3/3).
Likud 5 Point Plan This morning, in the wake of the terror attack in Jerusalem, Likud Chairman, MK Binyamin Netanyahu, met with Prime Minister Shimon Peres along with the heads of the security branches - the Chief of Staff, Chief of Police, and Head of the GSS.
The heads of the security branches briefed Netanyahu regarding the measures being taken in the war against terrorism. Mr. Netanyahu expressed his full and complete support for an unfettered war against terror. MK Netanyahu told the Prime Minister that in his opinion, such a war must include the following five policy lines:
1. A halt to all further activity with the PLO Authority, until it takes action to eliminate the terrorist infrastructure.
2. Imposition of a complete closure on all areas in which there is a terrorist infrastructure, with agreement not to lift the closure until this infrastructure is eliminated.
3. Complete freedom of action for the IDF and the security forces in actions to; thwart attacks, pursue terrorists and collect intelligence in every place necessary.
4. Severe punishment against the terrorists, their handlers and all those who assist them, including expulsion from the country.
5. Control of Jerusalem is a primary focus of the terrorist campaign. This challenge must be met head-on by the eradication of all centers of activity of the PLO and Hamas in Jerusalem and its environs.
Mr. Netanyahu called for all the citizens of Israel to maintain calm in this difficult hour, noting that, "This is an hour for unity for an uncompromising assault on terror." He called again for Likud activists to refrain from demonstrating during these days of loss and funerals.
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