Pregnant Woman Killed, Husband Critically Injured in Samaria Terror Shooting

Thursday, 15 May 2025 | A brutal terror attack struck Samaria on Wednesday night, claiming the life of Tzeela Gez, a 30-year-old pregnant woman from Bruchin, and leaving her husband critically wounded as they drove toward a hospital for the birth of their child. The shooting has sparked grief, outrage, and calls for increased action against the current wave of terror in the region. 

The attack took place around 10 p.m. on Highway 55, when a terrorist opened fire on the couple’s vehicle. Magen David Adom emergency services responded quickly, treating Tzeela, who was in critical condition, and her husband, who sustained multiple gunshot wounds. Despite efforts to save her, Tzeela succumbed to her injuries at Beilinson Hospital, where doctors performed an emergency caesarean section to deliver her newborn son. The infant was transferred to Schneider Children’s Hospital, where he is reportedly in serious but stable condition. Tzeela’s husband, Hananel Gez remains in grave condition, battling life-threatening injuries. 

The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) and police, launched an immediate manhunt for the perpetrator, who fled the scene. The IDF confirmed that the military is conducting extensive operations in the area, blocking roads and searching nearby Palestinian villages, including al-Funduq, to apprehend the shooter. No group has yet claimed responsibility for the attack, but officials have pointed to rising tensions in Judea and Samaria (West Bank), where recent months have seen an escalation in violent incidents. 

Israeli leaders expressed both grief and condemnation in the wake of the tragedy. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu called the attack “horrific,” saying the couple’s journey to give birth to their baby was cut short by “despicable terrorists.” Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich took to social media, urging prayers for the wounded and emphasizing the need to “destroy the enemy” in both Gaza and the West Bank and to ensure security across Israel. Samaria Regional Council head Yossi Dagan, who attended the scene, described Gez as a “devoted, beloved, and smiling woman” and demanded severe measures, including razing villages linked to terrorism, to prevent further bloodshed. 

Today, IDF Chief of Staff Lt. Gen. Eyal Zamir visited the site of last night’s deadly shooting, where he said Israeli forces are actively pursuing the terrorist and potential accomplices in an ongoing manhunt. “This is a difficult and painful attack in which an Israeli civilian was killed on her way to a delivery room. I share in the deep sorrow of the family. We are engaged in broad fighting against terror in Judea and Samaria, and we will continue. We will activate all our tools, and we will reach the murderers to bring them to justice.” 

The ongoing Israel–Hamas conflict, which has ignited since October 2023, continues to fuel unrest and increased violence in Judea and Samaria, straining efforts to maintain stability. This latest attack has reinflamed debates over security in the region. In January, a terror attack on the same highway claimed the lives of three Israelis, including a policeman. 

Some politicians are arguing that unchecked Palestinian militancy threatens all of Israel. “If there is no security in Samaria, there will be no security in Tel Aviv,” Smotrich said, echoing sentiments from other officials who warn of a wider terror surge. 

As the investigation unfolds, authorities are yet to identify the attacker and determine whether the shooting was a lone act or part of a coordinated militant effort. The IDF has increased its presence in the area, with checkpoints and patrols intensified to deter further attacks.