Egyptian Attacker Was Most Likely Lone Wolf Jihadist, Israeli Sources Say

i24 News

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu looks on as he convenes a weekly cabinet meeting amid surge of violence in Jerusalem and the West Bank, at the Prime Minister’s office in Jerusalem, January 29, 2023. Photo: REUTERS/Ronen Zvulun/Pool

The Egyptian border policeman who shot dead three Israeli soldiers on Saturday during a cross-border infiltration was most likely a jihadist who acted alone, Israeli security sources told local media on Sunday.

The estimation is based on the preliminary findings of an ongoing probe into the deadly incident. According to an earlier report, the attacker carried a Koran and a knife, as well as the firearm.

Earlier Sunday, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu demanded a full joint investigation with Cairo.

“Israel relayed a clear message to the Egyptian government. We expect that the joint investigation will be exhaustive and thorough,” Netanyahu told his cabinet in televised remarks about Saturday’s incident.

Israeli media have raised questions over the shootings, particularly on how the assailant — who has not been identified — managed to cross the high barrier running along the border. In recent years, there have been exchanges of fire between smugglers and Israeli soldiers stationed along the border.

The victims, Lia Ben Nun, Ohad Dahan and Ori Ilouz, were laid to rest on Sunday.