IDF reservist kicks Palestinian flag, sets off explosive terror trap

The reservist was lightly wounded, according to reports, and has been taken to a hospital for further treatment.

 Footage of an Israeli going to take down a Palestinian flag before the explosive device went off in Kochav Hashahar, in the West Bank. April 21, 2024. (photo credit: Screenshot/Instagram)
Footage of an Israeli going to take down a Palestinian flag before the explosive device went off in Kochav Hashahar, in the West Bank. April 21, 2024.
(photo credit: Screenshot/Instagram)

An IDF reservist who was home on temporary leave was lightly wounded after kicking a Palestinian flag in Kochav Hashahar, in the West Bank, and setting off an explosive charge that was implanted under it, Israeli media reported on Sunday.

Initial reports claimed that an Israeli resident of Binyamin, in the West Bank, was lightly wounded.

The IDF later confirmed the Israeli was an IDF solder in reserve who was on vacation. 

The military further stated IDF troops were searching the area for suspects.

This attack came shortly after an attempted stabbing and shooting attack on IDF soldiers north of Hebron.

Additionally, on Sunday, there was an attempted shooting attack at Kibbutz Meirav on Mount Gilboa. No injuries were reported, while a compound sustained minor damage, according to the IDF. 

The military added that while searching for suspects in the nearby village of Jalbun, an explosive device was thrown at the troops. Here, too, the military said no injuries or damage were reported. 

The military noted that troops had blocked off roads to search for suspects. 

In January, National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir ordered a ban on Palestinian flags in public spaces as well as an order for police to remove them.

This is a developing story.