After a 24-hour search for the missing 14-year-old shepherd, Binyamin Achimair, his body was discovered in the same region where he went missing, Israeli media reported on Saturday.
The IDF confirmed the cause of death as being a terrorist murder, with security services currently in pursuit of those believed responsible.
Due to the nationalist motive of the murder, the investigation was handed over to the Shin Bet (Israel Security Agency).
Netanayhu orders intense investigation
"The abominable murder of the boy Binyamin Achimair is a serious crime. I send my heartfelt condolences to his family," Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said. "IDF and Shin Bet forces are in an extensive pursuit of the despicable murderers and all those who cooperated with them."
"We will get to the murderers and their helpers as we do to anyone who harms the citizens of the State of Israel," Netanyahu added.
He ordered the IDF, Shin Bet, and the Israel Police to carry out intense operational and intelligence activities in the Palestinian towns in the area of the disappearance.
He also pushed for all Israeli citizens to help security services do their work without hindrance.
After news of Achimair's body being found, a few violent incidents - including setting cars on fire - happened in the village Duma, and one person was killed by settler gunfire according to Palestinian reports, Walla reported on Saturday.
Defense Minister Yoav Gallant also issued a statement, saying, "The security system will find the murderer and bring him to justice."
He emphasized the need for order and trust in Israel's security system and soldiers, noting that "Retaliatory actions will make it harder for our soldiers in their mission - we must not take the law into our own hands."
Israeli President Isaac Herzog posted on the social media platform X: "Our hearts ache for the murder of Binyamin Achimair, only 14 years old, whose life was cut short. At this difficult time, I offer condolences to his family and loved ones." He added that he seeks to strengthen the security forces, "working resolutely to defend the citizens of Israel, especially in these tense days and very complex conditions."
He continued in his post: "Although our hearts ache, and despite the pain and anger, no one should break the law and act violently. The IDF, Shin Bet, and Israeli police investigating the incident will reach the despicable murderers soon, as they prove time and time again, and they will be punished to the fullest extent."