After this morning’s (Friday, 14 July, 2017) terror attack by three Arabs from Um Al Fahum in the area of the Temple Mount, two police officers were murdered and a third is in hospital in serious condition.
The terrorists were armed with firearms (Karl Gustav and a pistol) as well as knives. They opened fire at a group of police officers at the Lions' Gate in Jerusalem's Old City and then fled back towards one of the mosques in the Temple Mount complex, trying to take refuge inside the mosques. The three attackers were shot and killed by police.
The incident is grave and severe. The terrorists desecrated a holy place and turned a prayer site into an arena of terror and bloodshed.
To ensure that there are no additional weapons within the Temple Mount compound and to maintain public safety, the gates on the Temple Mount have been closed and Friday prayers will not be held at this stage. The status quo on the Temple Mount will be maintained.
Police are assessing the security situation and extra police units and border police are patrolling the areas.
Public leaders are asked to encourage the public to remain calm and to retain peace and quiet in Jerusalem and elsewhere.