WEST BANK — Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) units from the Ephraim Brigade demolished the home of Maher Samara, the perpetrator of a deadly shooting attack on May 14, 2025, in the area between Burukin and Paduel. The attack resulted in the deaths of Tzala Gaz and her son, Ravid-Haim Gaz, who later succumbed to his injuries, and left another Israeli civilian wounded.

The Ephraim Brigade carried out the demolition as part of Israel’s policy of targeting the homes of attackers in response to acts of terror. IDF officials stated that these measures aim to deter future attacks and send a clear message to those contemplating violence against Israeli civilians.

The May attack shocked local communities, as the assailant opened fire indiscriminately along the road, striking Gaz and her son while they were traveling. Authorities have condemned the attack as an act of terrorism, emphasizing the human toll of ongoing security threats in the region.

The home demolition follows a series of similar actions by the IDF, reflecting the military’s ongoing operational strategy in the West Bank. Security officials maintain that these steps are part of broader efforts to protect Israeli citizens and reduce the incidence of attacks in contested areas.