Israeli Woman On Her Way to Give Birth Killed in West Bank Attack

The West Bank has recently witnessed a tragic incident that underscores the escalating violence in the region. On May 14, 2025, Tzeela Gez, a 37-year-old Israeli woman, was fatally shot while en route to a hospital to give birth. Despite the attack, doctors managed to deliver her baby, a boy, who is currently in serious but stable condition.

The attack occurred as Gez and her husband, Hananel, were traveling through the occupied West Bank. A Palestinian assailant opened fire on their vehicle, resulting in Gez’s death and her husband’s critical injuries. The Israeli military has initiated a manhunt for the attacker and has sealed off nearby Palestinian villages in an effort to apprehend the perpetrator. Lt. Gen. Eyal Zamir, the military chief of staff, emphasized the commitment to hold those responsible accountable, stating, “We will use all the tools at our disposal and reach the murderers in order to hold them accountable.” (apnews.com)

This incident is part of a broader pattern of violence in the West Bank. Since Hamas’ October 2023 assault, Israel has conducted frequent raids in the territory, leading to significant Palestinian casualties and displacement. The Israeli military’s ongoing operation aims to suppress militancy but has not halted the cycle of violence. The recent attack on Gez has heightened tensions, with concerns about potential retaliatory actions from radical settlers. These settlers have previously engaged in violence against Palestinians, often with impunity, raising fears of further escalation. (apnews.com)

The humanitarian impact of the violence is profound. The United Nations Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA) reports that more than 40,000 Palestinians have been displaced due to the Israeli military’s operations. Cities like Jenin have become largely deserted, and thousands have been forced to flee their homes in Tulkarm. The destruction includes the demolition of dozens of homes and the leveling of entire residential blocks. (en.wikipedia.org)

International reactions to the violence have varied. The Hamas militant group praised the attack on Gez as “heroic” but did not claim responsibility. This response highlights the complex and volatile nature of the conflict, where actions by one group can lead to widespread repercussions. (apnews.com)

The situation in the West Bank remains dire, with ongoing violence affecting both Israeli and Palestinian civilians. The international community continues to call for measures to de-escalate tensions and address the underlying issues contributing to the conflict. However, achieving a lasting peace remains a significant challenge, as the cycle of violence persists with no clear resolution in sight.

For more detailed coverage on this incident and its implications, you can refer to the Associated Press article titled “An Israeli woman on her way to give birth is killed in a West Bank attack.” (apnews.com)