A Palestinian suicide bomber blew himself up in an Israeli bus early Wednesday at the Musmus junction not far from the Arab town of Umm al Fahm. At least seven israelis were reported killed, among the Arab Israelis.
More than 30 Israelis were wounded, of whom one was in critical condition and at least eight more in serious condition.
Israeli police said the suicide bomber bordered the bus in the Wadi Ara area, a largely Israeli Arab region near the West Bank, and situated on the main highway between Hadera and Afula, cities hard hit by Palestinian attacks in recent months.
The bomber, moving to the center of the bus, detonated the device shortly after he boarded, police said.
Israel Radio said the bus was traveling from Tel Aviv to Nazareth, and that the blast caused extensive damage to the bus.
The Islamic Jihad claimed responsibility for the bombing attack. It identified the bomber as Rifat Abu Dayak, 24, a resident of Jenin.
The bombing attack came as Israelis and Palestinians were attempting to work out a Mideast cease-fire under the mediation of US envoy Anthony Zinni.
A few hours after the suicide bombing attack, shots were fired at an Israeli vehicle near El-Fawar in the Mount Hebron area.
There were no reports of injuries in this attack, which took place south of Beit Hagai settlement, although the vehicle reportedly sustained some damage. (Albawaba.com)
