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Two IDF soldiers were murdered HY”D in a deadly shooting attack near Chevron on Friday morning, as two armed terrorists opened fire on soldiers stationed at Yehuda Junction along Route 35. Three additional soldiers were wounded in the attack.

The victims were identified as Staff Sgt. Ron Yonatan Roytman, 23, of Ashkelon, a squad commander in the Ari Battalion (775) of the IDF’s Search and Rescue Brigade, and Sgt. Yuval Shai Svilem, 20, of Hod Hasharon, a combat soldier in the same battalion.

The attack took place at approximately 7:10 a.m., when the two terrorists arrived by vehicle at the junction. According to the initial investigation, the terrorists may have originally intended to carry out a larger attack against Israeli civilians along the main roads in the area. After encountering IDF forces, they changed their target, exited their vehicle and opened fire on the soldiers.

A prolonged gun battle followed, lasting approximately 20 minutes.

Additional IDF forces arrived at the scene, including the deputy commander of the Ari Battalion and a company commander, who maneuvered around the terrorists and killed both of them.

Two soldiers were fatally wounded in the attack, and three others were injured. The wounded were evacuated for medical treatment.

The IDF reported that a large quantity of ammunition was found in the terrorists’ vehicle. Military officials said the rapid response by the soldiers prevented an even more serious attack and potentially additional casualties among civilians and security forces.

Following the attack, the IDF and Shin Bet launched a major counterterrorism operation in the Chevron area, under the command of the Yehuda Brigade. Forces from the IDF, Border Police and specialized units were deployed to search dozens of locations, question suspects and apprehend individuals suspected of involvement in terrorist activity.

The operation focused in part on the extended family and surrounding areas associated with the two terrorists. Israeli forces also imposed significant movement restrictions around Chevron, sealing off areas and operating at checkpoints.

As the operation continued over the weekend, forces searched approximately 200 locations and arrested 10 suspects, according to subsequent reports. Israeli forces also demolished structures in the area as part of the broader operation. Reports said residents were temporarily evacuated from certain areas to allow the security forces to carry out their activities.

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who visited the area following the attack, said the IDF would enter the neighborhoods from which the terrorists emerged, conduct house-to-house searches and destroy terrorist infrastructure. He also said Israel was preparing for a broader operation throughout Yehuda and Shomron.

IDF Chief of Staff Lt. Gen. Eyal Zamir described the attack as a serious incident and said the soldiers’ swift action had prevented a potentially larger attack.

Ron Yonatan Roytman HY”D, 23, of Ashkelon, had fought to serve as a combat soldier despite an injury that initially threatened to prevent him from doing so. His brother David described him as a beloved person who was determined to serve on the front lines. Roytman later became a commander of new recruits and continued seeking assignments in dangerous areas.

Roytman was laid to rest at the military cemetery in Ashkelon.

Yuval Shai Svilem HY”D, 20, of Hod Hasharon, is remembered by his city as a beloved son, brother and friend. The municipality and community of Hod Hasharon expressed their condolences to his parents, siblings and extended family.

May Hashem avenge their blood, and may their families be comforted among the mourners of Tzion and Yerushalayim.

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