A suicide bombing attack took place at a bus stop next to an Israeli military base in central Israel, south of Tel Aviv, Tuesday afternoon at around 17:50 (local time).
According to media reports, at least seven Israeli soldiers were killed and at least 30 persons have been injured. Fifteen were reportedly in serious condition. Hospital doctors said most of the injured were soldiers.
The Israeli media reported that a Palestinian suicide bomber, dressed as an Israeli soldier, blew himself up at a crowded bus stop adjacent to the military base.
Emergency rescue workers at the scene of the attack found one dead body, believed to be that of the bomber.
The Hamas has accepted responsibilty for the attack. Hamas leader Abdel Aziz Rantisi said the attack was "a reaction to the Zionists' crimes and assassinations."
Meanwhile, an official in the Israeli Prime Minister's office was quoted as saying, "The attack today is further indication that the Palestinian Authority is doing absolutely nothing whatsoever to reign in terrorists or to dismantle the terror infrastructure in their areas."
Palestinian legislator Saeb Ereket condemned the attack, saying the Palestinians urge the United States and the international community to "de-escalate the violence and implement the road map." (Albawaba.com)
© 2003 Al Bawaba (www.albawaba.com)
