Heroic Actions by Former U.S. Marine Save Lives in West Bank Terrorist Attack
Photo: Magen David Adom (Twitter)
An Israeli man, known locally as the "Rambo of Itamar", was shot and seriously wounded in a terror attack today, while driving through the northern West Bank town of Huwara on Sunday. The man has been identified as David Stern.
Stern, a dual U.S. Israeli citizen, was shot multiple times in his head and shoulder. He managed to return fire after sustaining his wounds, and hitting the terrorist.
Stern was a United States Marine before immigrating to Israel. His condition is currently listed as moderate to severe. He is being treated at a nearby hospital. His wife, who was with him in the car, did not sustain any gunshot wounds.
The terrorist, identified as Laith Nadim Nassar, was later shot by an Israeli soldier and captured. He was treated for his wounds before being questioned by authorities.
Stern was headed to Itamar before being attacked. Itamar is a Jewish settlement approximately five kilometers southeast of Nablus. Huwara is the only Palestinian village that Israelis must drive through to reach their homes in the area, such as Itamar.
Terror groups such as Hamas and Islamic Jihad praised the attack. Hamas stated that, the shooting was “a natural reaction to the occupation’s crimes against our people in the West Bank and Jerusalem.” Neither group claimed responsibility.
Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu vowed that "Anyone trying to harm the citizens of Israel will pay the price."
Points to consider
Photos on social media showed Palestinians celebrating the attack by handing out sweets and cheering.
The attack came exactly three weeks after two Israeli brothers were killed in a terror attack while driving through Huwara. As a reaction, many neighboring Israeli settlers rioted, burning homes and cars.
Huwara remains a flashpoint for both Israelis and Palestinians.
Three weeks ago another US-Israeli citizen, Elan Ganeles, was killed in a terror attack.
There is a call for calm on both sides, as Ramadan approaches.