Tragedy struck the Jordan Valley on Sunday morning as a deadly terrorist attack claimed the lives of three Israeli security guards.

Initial reports suggest that an Arab drove a truck to the Jordanian side of the Allenby Bridge and opened fire on Israeli forces guarding their side of the crossing. The terrorist was killed in the ensuing firefight, but concerns about potential explosives in the truck have prompted an extensive security sweep of the area.

Magen David Adom emergency service quickly responded to the scene. Despite their efforts at resuscitation, the three men, reportedly all in their 50s, were pronounced dead at the scene.

In response, the IDF is closing the crossing on the Israeli side and cordoning off nearby Jericho to rule out the presence of additional threats. Across the border, a Jordanian security official confirmed to Arab media that their side of the Allenby crossing had also been closed.

“We have known for several months from conversations with the military that they are aware of what is happening in Jordan, and are aware that the Palestinian population in Jordan supports Hamas and encourages it,” said Jordan Valley Regional Council leader David Elhayani.

“The army knows this and prepared for it, but they did not think that it could come from a bridge of apparent peace. The result is very difficult.”

While off-limits to most Israelis, the Allenby Bridge serves as a key crossing for tourists and Arab pilgrims bound for Mecca.

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