Jerusalem Bus Bombing Kills 19, Shatters Hopes for Saudi Peace Initiative
Hamas suicide attack on bus in Jerusalem deals blow to emerging diplomatic efforts
The Attack
A Palestinian suicide bomber detonated explosives on a crowded bus in the Gilo neighborhood of Jerusalem during morning rush hour, killing 19 people and wounding 74. The attack targeted Bus 32A carrying students and workers.
Attack Impact
Casualties:
- 19 dead, including high school students
- 74 wounded, many critically
- Bomber identified as Mohammed al-Ghoul from Gaza
- Hamas claims responsibility within hours
Timing Significance
The bombing occurred as:
- US envoy William Burns visited region
- Saudi peace initiative gained traction
- International pressure mounted for ceasefire
- Relative calm had prevailed for two weeks
Immediate Aftermath
Israeli Response
Prime Minister Ariel Sharon convened emergency security cabinet:
“This massacre proves that Arafat’s terror regime must be completely dismantled. There will be no negotiations under fire,” - Sharon statement
Military actions:
- F-16 strikes on Gaza security compounds
- West Bank closures tightened
- Targeted assassination list expanded
- Security barrier construction accelerated
Palestinian Authority Reaction
Yasser Arafat, still besieged in Ramallah compound:
- Condemned attack in Arabic and English
- Called for international intervention
- Blamed Israeli occupation for cycle of violence
- Ordered arrests of Hamas members (not implemented)
Diplomatic Setback
Saudi Initiative Stalls
Crown Prince Abdullah’s peace proposal faced new obstacles:
Original proposal:
- Full Israeli withdrawal to 1967 lines
- Normal relations with Arab states
- Just solution for refugees
- East Jerusalem as Palestinian capital
Post-attack reality:
- Israeli public support evaporates
- Arab states question timing
- US mediation efforts complicated
- European diplomacy frustrated
Security Measures Intensified
Separation Barrier Fast-Tracked
The attack strengthened support for controversial security barrier:
- Cabinet approves first phase construction
- Route to include major settlement blocks
- International criticism intensifies
- Palestinians warn of “apartheid wall”
Targeted Killings Policy
Israel expands assassination campaign:
- Hamas political leaders added to target list
- Collateral damage threshold raised
- Gaza operations intensified
- International law debates ignored
Cycle of Violence Continues
Predictable Pattern
The Jerusalem bombing reinforced destructive cycle:
- Palestinian attack on civilians
- Israeli military retaliation
- Palestinian casualties and radicalization
- International intervention fails
- Preparation for next round
Public Opinion Hardens
Polls showed:
- Israeli public: 68% support for harsh military measures
- Palestinian public: 65% support for armed resistance
- International community: Growing frustration with both sides
Looking Forward
The attack effectively ended the brief period of optimism surrounding the Saudi initiative, setting stage for continued violence and eventual construction of the separation barrier that would reshape the conflict’s geography.