Bus 405 Suicide Attack in Israel
July 6th, 1989
July 6th, 1989

How Long Ago?
36 years, 27 days ago
Location
Jerusalem, Israel
Category
Crime & Law
Links & References
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Bus 405 Suicide Attack in Israel
A suicide attack on Bus 405 resulted in the deaths of sixteen passengers when a member of the Palestinian Islamic Jihad seized control of the vehicle, driving it off a cliff in the Jerusalem Hills. This premeditated act caused significant casualties and shocked the nation. The assailant's intent was to inflict mass harm and demonstrate the ongoing conflict in the region, drawing both local and international attention to the motives behind such violent acts.
16 passengers killed in the bus attack.
Attack carried out by Palestinian Islamic Jihad.
Bus drove off a cliff in the Jerusalem Hills.
Increased security concerns for public transportation.
What Happened?
Bus 405 was traveling from Tel Aviv to Jerusalem when it became the scene of a tragic attack. A member of the Palestinian Islamic Jihad managed to board the bus and, with the passengers inside, took control of the vehicle at a critical point in its route. The assailant's strategies included a sudden shift in driving away from the intended path, which led to the bus careening off a cliff in the Jerusalem Hills. The immediate aftermath resulted in the deaths of sixteen bus passengers, causing shockwaves throughout Israel and beyond. This act intensified concerns regarding the security of public transportation in Israel, given the country's ongoing tumultuous political climate marked by intermittent violence.The attack was not merely about casualties; it underscored the long-standing Israeli-Palestinian conflict and served as a reminder of the deep-rooted tensions that existed, particularly from militant groups like the Palestinian Islamic Jihad, who were targeting civilians to further their political aims. In the days following the incident, security measures were reevaluated, and public sentiment turned towards fear and outrage as discussions erupted regarding the future of Israeli-Palestinian interactions and how such terroristic strategies could be counteracted. The severe loss of life and impact on the community had ramifications that reached far beyond that single day, affecting policies and furthering the divide between the groups involved.
Why Does it Matter?
This act of violence had a considerable impact on Israeli society and its security policies. It illustrated the volatility of public places and the lengths to which militant groups would go to make a statement, further entrenching divisions. The event also contributed to a continual cycle of violence that characterized the late 20th century in the region. In this context, it highlights the complexities involved in addressing terrorism and the ongoing conflict in a way that considers the deeper grievances on both sides.
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