Israeli critically injured in new shooting attack in West Bank

By Qais Abu Samra and Zain Khalil

JERUSALEM (AA) - An Israeli settler was critically injured in a new shooting attack on Monday in the West Bank city of Jericho, according to the military.

A military statement said gunmen opened fire on an Israeli vehicle near the Beit Ha'arava settlement and fled the scene.

Israeli forces launched a manhunt for the attackers, who are believed to have fled toward Jericho city, according to Yedioth Ahronoth newspaper.

Israeli public broadcaster KAN reported another shooting attack near the Almog settlement in Jericho, but no injuries were reported.

The Israeli army has earlier sent additional forces to the West Bank amid rising violence across the occupied territory.

On Sunday, dozens of Israeli settlers attacked the Palestinian town of Huwara and vandalized several Palestinian homes and vehicles. A Palestinian was killed in the attack.

The violence followed the killing of two Israeli settlers in a shooting attack in the town.

According to Palestinian figures, at least 62 Palestinians have been killed by Israeli fire since the start of the year. Twelve Israelis were also killed in attacks by Palestinians in the same period.

*Writing by Ahmed Asmar in Ankara