February 19, 2002, Last Night's Murderous Terrorist Attack on the Kisufim Road
(Communicated by the IDF Spokesman)

Last night (February 18), at 19:00, a Palestinian terrorist lying in ambush opened fire on an Israeli motorist en route to Gush Katif, on the Kisufim road in the Gaza District. The civilian driver, Mrs. Ahuva Amergi, 30, of Ganei Tal, was killed in the attack. As soldiers arrived on the scene, a gun battle ensued between the terrorist and the IDF, in which the terrorist also threw grenades at the soldiers before he was shot and killed. Two IDF soldiers, IDF Major Mor Yehuda Elraz, 25, of Kiryat Ata, and IDF Staff Sergeant Amir Mansuri, 21, of Kiryat Arba were killed during the course of the battle.

In addition, two IDF soldiers and a civilian were wounded, and were taken to hospital for treatment.

The families of the victims have been notified.

In response to the murderous attack, the IDF carried out an air strikes against a Palestinian Authority special security forces facility in the city of Ramallah and a PA military intelligence building in the town of Rafah. The IDF also sealed off the Gaza-Khan Yunis road to Palestinian traffic, at the Netzarim, Kfar Darom and Gush Katif Junctions.

The IDF Spokesman stated that the IDF will use all necessary means to protect the lives of Israeli citizens and soldiers.