IDF forces mapped two terrorists' houses in the village of Tel on Saturday in preparation for their sealing and demolition, the military announced on Sunday.
The two terrorists had committed a shooting attack on Friday, killing 27-year-old Maj. Yuval Ezra and 32-year-old Chief Sgt. First Class (res.) Benayahu Melet.
The IDF announced that they had mapped the homes of both the terrorist who carried out the shooting, as well as the terrorist who had stolen the weapon used in the attack.
IDF, Palestinian Authority disagree on events leading to shooting
According to the IDF, a group of Israeli civilians had illegally crossed into Palestinian Authority-controlled territory while hiking in the area. The military said Palestinians confronted the group and began throwing rocks before one of them opened fire.
The IDF said troops and other security forces rushed to the scene, where they exchanged fire with the suspected attackers.
The Palestinian Authority's Health Ministry said at least four Palestinians were killed and four others were wounded, including three in critical condition. A different account was provided by Essam Saifi, a local Fatah leader from the area, who told Reuters that about 25 to 30 Israeli settlers initially entered the area, attacked residents, and attempted to break into two homes. According to Saifi, local residents came out to confront them, at which point the settlers opened fire.
James Genn contributed to this report.