Police chief: Jerusalem attack could embolden terrorists, but no need for alarm

Public Security Minister Erdan says the attacker, who was killed by police, had an Israeli identification card.

By JPOST.COM STAFF
Updated: OCTOBER 9, 2016 12:35
Scene of shooting attack in Jerusalem's Ammunition Hill, 9.10.16
Police chief Insp.-Gen. Roni Alsheich on Sunday called on the public to remain alert but not change its daily routine after two people were killed and several were wounded in a Jerusalem terror attack.
Speaking at the scene of the attack, Alsheich said that it is "not surprising" that there are those attempting to shatter the tranquility of the holidays and hurt Israeli morale.
He said, however, that the public in Jerusalem is strong and will not be deterred by such attacks.
Alsheich said that despite the attack, there is "no change in the situation assessment and no need to change behavior." He said that everyone planning to come to Jerusalem should come, as the police is well prepared.
The police chief admitted however, that the success of this attack could embolden other such attackers.
Public Security Minister Gilad Erdan also addressed the media on the scene, saying that there had not been a specific terror warning prior to the attack.
Erdan said that he could not give details on the attack due to a gag order on the investigation, but he did mention that the attacker, who was killed by police, had an Israeli identification card.
Erdan said that because thousands of reinforcements have been deployed in Jerusalem amid the High Holy Day season and because of the bravery of the police who shot the suspect, further bloodshed was prevented.
The minister said that incitement on social media continues to contribute to the spate of lone wolf terror attacks that have taken place over the past year. He mentioned Facebook specifically, saying that the social network has a responsibility to fight incitement.