The IDF has launched an investigation into whether a photographer working for the French news agency AFP received advance information about Friday morning’s terror attack near Tzomet Yehuda, in which five people were injured.

The investigation was opened after unusually clear photographs emerged showing the terrorists during the attack and the subsequent pursuit by Israeli security forces.

According to the report, Israeli security officials are examining how the photographer managed to position himself close enough to capture detailed images of the terrorists while the attack was still unfolding.

Investigators are looking into the possibility that the terrorists provided advance notice of their plans to ensure that the attack would receive international media coverage. However, there has been no confirmation that the photographer had prior knowledge of the attack.

Meanwhile, the IDF released additional details about the attack, revealing that the two terrorists had originally intended to target civilians traveling along Routes 35 and 60.

Soldiers from the Ari Battalion of the IDF’s Search and Rescue Brigade were deployed at checkpoints and fortified positions in the area as part of heightened security measures during the early morning hours.

According to the military, the terrorists spotted the soldiers and realized they would be unable to reach their intended targets. They subsequently changed their plans and attacked an IDF checkpoint instead.

The soldiers engaged the terrorists and eliminated both attackers. A large quantity of ammunition was discovered inside their vehicle, leading military officials to conclude that the soldiers had prevented a potentially far more serious attack.

The battalion commander, identified as Lt. Col. L., praised his soldiers for their quick response, saying they had maintained a high level of operational readiness and acted decisively to eliminate the threat.

He emphasized that the soldiers’ deployment had prevented the terrorists from reaching civilian targets and potentially carrying out a much larger attack.

Following the attack, Israeli security forces launched extensive counterterrorism operations throughout the Chevron area.

Troops from the Duvdevan Unit, Paratroopers Brigade, Search and Rescue Brigade, and Border Police are conducting operations in Chevron and surrounding villages, with preparations underway to expand the offensive.

A full closure has been imposed on Chevron and Halhul, with dozens of roadblocks established throughout the area.

The IDF has also deployed the elite Maglan Unit to reinforce security operations and assist in preventing additional terrorist attacks.

(YWN Israel Desk – Jerusalem)