The Druze-German attacker shouted "Allahu Akbar" before going on a stabbing spree

A deadly stabbing attack at Lev HaMifratz central station in Haifa on Monday morning has left one person dead and four others wounded, according to Israeli police and emergency services.

The Attack

The incident occurred at approximately 9:50 AM when the attacker, identified as Yitro Shaheen, a 20-year-old member of the Druze community from Shfaram, began stabbing passengers inside a bus at the central station. Eyewitnesses reported that Shaheen shouted "Allahu Akbar" before launching his attack.

Security forces responded quickly to the scene. According to police reports, Shaheen was "neutralized by gunfire from a security guard and a civilian who were at the scene."

The Victims

Medical authorities confirmed that four people were wounded in the attack:

Tragically, one victim, described as a 70-year-old Israeli Arab citizen, was pronounced dead at the scene after being stabbed in the neck. A police source noted that a gunshot wound was found on the victim's foot, possibly from the crossfire during efforts to neutralize the attacker, but confirmed this was not the cause of death.

The Attacker

According to authorities, Yitro Shaheen had been living in Germany for the past year and only returned to Israel last month. He had been residing in Shfaram, a predominantly Druze town in northern Israel.

Official Responses

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu issued a statement following the attack: "My wife Sarah and I send our deepest condolences to the family of the person murdered in the shocking terrorist attack in Haifa, and we wish a speedy recovery to the wounded. We will continue to fight against those who seek our lives everywhere - and we will defeat them."

Acting Minister of National Security Chaim Katz conducted a situation assessment at the scene and later stated: "The days ahead are challenging. Israel Police and all emergency and rescue bodies are on high alert, and at the same time, the public is required to remain vigilant and not hesitate to report any suspicious person. I commend the security guards who engaged and neutralized the attacker."

In response to the attack, Deputy Knesset Speaker MK Erez Malul has called on Minister Katz and Transportation Minister Miri Regev to reinstate dedicated security units for public transportation.

Police Commissioner Danny Levy and Coastal District Commander Chief Superintendent Yehiel Bohadana arrived at the scene immediately after the attack to oversee the investigation.

Return to Normalcy

Approximately two hours after the attack, routine was reported to be gradually returning to Haifa and the northern district, though security forces remain on high alert.