Israeli Reservist Rams Vehicle Into Palestinian Man in West Bank, Video Sparks Outrage

An Israeli reservist rammed his vehicle into a Palestinian man who was praying on the roadside in the West Bank on Thursday. The incident happened during daylight hours on a public road. The man survived the hit and was not reported injured. The reservist was arrested the same day. The video of the act went viral within hours and drew wide criticism.

According to Reuters, the Israeli military confirmed the man was a reservist. Officials said he fired shots in the area before the ramming. They called his actions a severe breach of authority and said his weapon was taken. The case triggered strong concern as tensions remain high across the region.

Israeli Reservist Incident Draws Strong Response

Footage shared online showed the man praying on the roadside before the vehicle sped toward him. The car struck the victim, knocking him to the ground. The reservist then spoke to him and drove off. Witnesses said he carried a gun and wore civilian clothes.

The Times of Israel reported the suspect was placed under house arrest for five days. Military officials said his service was terminated. They also said they were reviewing all details of the case. The Palestinian man walked away without injuries but appeared shaken.

Reuters noted that this incident comes during one of the most violent years in the West Bank. United Nations data shows more than 750 Palestinians were injured in attacks by Israeli civilians in 2025. The UN also recorded more than 1,000 Palestinian deaths in the West Bank between October 2023 and October 2025. Most were killed during Israeli security operations, while others died in settler‑related violence.

Rising Violence Fuels Fear and Uncertainty

Security officials told AFP that a separate stabbing and car‑ramming attack in northern Israel killed two people on Friday. Police called it a rolling terror attack. They said it began in the city of Beit Shean when a pedestrian was run over. A civilian shot the suspect, who survived.

The back‑to‑back incidents underscore rising tension across Israel and the West Bank. Analysts say these events strain already fragile relations. People on both sides fear further escalation. Human rights groups warn that unchecked violence can deepen mistrust and lead to more attacks.

Regional observers say stronger accountability is needed. They argue that swift action may help ease tension. But they also note that long‑term calm will require deeper political efforts. For now, both incidents remain under investigation.

This latest incident involving an Israeli reservist has raised new questions about control, conduct, and safety on West Bank roads. Many hope the case brings clearer rules and better enforcement to prevent more violence involving Israeli reservists in the region.

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Q1: What happened in the Israeli reservist incident?

An Israeli reservist drove his vehicle into a Palestinian man who was praying on a roadside. Reuters confirmed the details with the Israeli military. The man survived without injuries.

Q2: Was the reservist arrested?

Yes. The Times of Israel reported he was arrested and placed under house arrest for five days. His military service was also terminated.

Q3: What does the viral video show?

The video shows the reservist striking the man with a car. It also shows him speaking to the victim while carrying a gun. The man gets up afterward.

Q4: How violent has the West Bank been this year?

UN data shows more than 750 Palestinians were injured in attacks by Israeli civilians in 2025. Over 1,000 Palestinians were killed between October 2023 and October 2025.

Q5: What other incidents happened this week?

A separate stabbing and ramming attack in northern Israel killed two people. AFP reported the suspect was shot and wounded by a civilian.