America News Agency

The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) issued a statement regarding an incident that occurred earlier today near the village of Sair, located in the Etzion Brigade’s area of responsibility in the West Bank.

According to the IDF, a report was received that a group of Israeli civilians in the area was taking an unauthorized trip near the village when Palestinians threw stones at the group. Some Israeli civilians were reportedly injured after being struck by stones.

Following the stone-throwing attack on the Israeli civilians, a security officer present in the area reportedly opened fire.

The IDF said Palestinians were injured as a result of the gunfire.

During the incident, a report was also received that a building under construction had caught fire. Fire crews dispatched to the area reportedly responded and extinguished the flames.

IDF troops reportedly intervened to end the friction in the area and prevent the situation from escalating further.

The soldiers were also said to have worked to evacuate the Israeli civilians at the scene from the area.

The IDF emphasized that unauthorized trips endanger participants and divert soldiers from the defensive and preventive duties they are required to carry out in the area.

Israeli police reportedly launched an investigation into the incident.

Police teams were said to have collected evidence and witness statements at the scene in coordination with IDF troops.

Officials said the investigation is continuing in order to clarify all aspects of the incident.