One of the most significant investigations in recent weeks has unfolded in Jerusalem, focusing on youth involvement in violent attacks in the city’s east. The Jerusalem District’s central investigation unit (Yamar) arrested 11 teenagers from the Issawiya neighborhood, aged 12 to 17, suspected of hurling Molotov cocktails at security forces and toward a nearby hospital. Conducted jointly with Border Police units, the investigation has revealed an organized group that operated methodically and reignited public debate over the growing participation of minors in violent incidents in Jerusalem.
Jerusalem police investigation
The probe began after two incidents of Molotov cocktail attacks occurred about two weeks ago in Issawiya. According to suspicions, the young offenders set garbage bins on fire, threw burning bottles at officers from the Shalem police station and Border Police fighters operating in the area, and even targeted a hospital nearby. During one of the incidents, undercover Border Police officers, feeling a real danger to life, opened fire toward the attackers, injuring one of them, who was evacuated to receive medical treatment.
During the arrest of a 15-year-old suspect, police found an Islamic Jihad flag and several Molotov cocktails, both used and unused. His detention was extended by the court but later replaced with restrictive conditions. As the Yamar investigation progressed, detectives and Border Police officers arrested nine additional teenagers from the same neighborhood, all aged 12–17.
Police stated that the group acted in coordination and posed a real threat to human life. “Their actions seriously endangered the safety of officers and civilians by using stones and Molotov cocktails,” a police spokesperson said. “The Israel Police will continue to act against those endangering the public and security forces, locate them, and bring them to justice.”
The Jerusalem District’s central investigation unit also seeks to identify those who recruited the minors and examine the broader social influence behind the growing phenomenon of youth violence in East Jerusalem. Indictments are expected in the coming days, as the case sparks renewed debate on the criminal responsibility of minors involved in violent attacks in Jerusalem.
