Last night (Thursday), three buses exploded in three separate parking lots in Bat Yam, causing fires but no reported casualties or injuries. Additional explosive devices were discovered at multiple other sites.
According to reports, a passenger noticed a suspicious object inside one of the buses and alerted the driver, who reacted quickly, continued to the parking lot, and evacuated the passengers—minutes later, the explosion occurred. According to other reports, the bombs were to explode simultaneously this morning (Friday) at nine but were mistakenly set for the evening, thus going off early and alerting authorities to the danger.
22:45: Defense Minister Israel Katz instructs the IDF to intensify operations against refugee camps in Judea and Samaria in response to the attempted attacks in Gush Dan – “We will relentlessly pursue the terrorists and destroy terror infrastructure—those who harbor terrorism will pay a heavy price.”
22:29: Prime Minister’s Office – Netanyahu to hold a situation assessment following the bus explosions
22:11: Minister Regev instructs the Head of the Public Transportation Authority – “All buses, heavy rail, and light rail systems must be stopped and inspected according to the directives of the Shin Bet (the The Israel Security Agency) and police. We urge the public to exercise heightened vigilance and immediately report any suspicious objects to the authorities. Please follow the instructions of the Israel Police and official security agencies.”
22:08: Israel Fire and Rescue Authority local commander reports – “Upon arrival at the scene, we found a bus completely engulfed in flames. We immediately divided into operational sectors and worked to extinguish the fire to prevent it from spreading. Nearby buses sustained damage, likely from the explosion. We conducted multiple searches to ensure no one was trapped.”
21:55: Police Commissioner arrives at the scene
21:07: Fire and Rescue Services report no risk of fire spread – At 20:30, a report was received regarding a bus explosion at a parking lot on Amal Street in Bat Yam. Firefighting teams arriving on-site identified a bus fully ablaze, with no injuries or trapped individuals. Fire crews quickly controlled the flames, and there was no risk of further spread. No casualties were reported.
21:36: Police provide an update on a security incident – “Multiple reports have been received of explosions at several locations in Bat Yam involving multiple buses. A significant police presence is at the explosion sites, conducting searches for suspects. Bomb disposal units are scanning for additional suspicious objects. We urge the public to stay away from the areas and remain alert for any suspicious items.”
20:48: Initial police report – “A short while ago, a report was received regarding the sound of an explosion and a bus fire at a parking lot in Bat Yam. A large police presence is on-site, investigating the circumstances. At this stage, there are no reports of casualties.”
The first explosion occurred around 20:30 at a bus parking lot on Amal Street. Initial reports described a loud explosion, followed by a bus catching fire. Firefighters quickly arrived at the scene and managed to control the blaze, confirming that there was no risk of further spread.
Taking Precautionary Measures
Shortly after the first explosion, a second one was reported at another parking lot in the city. Security forces initiated searches in the area out of concern that additional explosive devices might be present, but no immediate threats were found.
The mayor, who arrived at the scene alongside police commanders and security forces, stated that the municipality is taking all necessary precautions and conducting extensive searches to ensure the safety of residents. He added that the circumstances of the explosions remained unclear, but authorities would continue to investigate the incident.
