The incident is currently under investigation of all
the defense agencies. We are prepared for everything,
and continue to be prepared for any incident of any kind.
We will continue to provide security to our residents.
At about 11:45, an attacker arrived near the Lion’s gate.
Exited his vehicle, and moved toward the gates of the Temple Mount.
He arrived at a police security point, near one of the gates.
He immediately drew a pistol and fired toward the police officers.
The officers, who were on high operational alert, responded with fire.
Neutralized the attacker. From a first situation assessment,
together with the district commander, we understand that (the attacker)
is a Muslim resident of the north (of Israel).
He converted to Islam recently. The assailant is known to police
from previous (criminal) offenses. An investigation in ongoing.
We must mention that we do not see a connection between the incidents
(ramming attack and shooting attack). It is true that there is tension in
the recent period, in recent days. We are well prepared, we deployed
additional units, also before the Friday (Islamic) prayers.