Blast rocks Israeli army checkpoint, 1 officer wounded

An explosion at an Israeli military checkpoint outside Jerusalem wounded an Israeli officer, as the country observed its annual Memorial Day for fallen soldiers and victims of terrorism.

A military spokesperson said the blast occurred as soldiers arrived at an army checkpoint beside the Palestinian town of Hizma, north of Jerusalem, to investigate "a suspicious object."

The device then exploded while still being investigated, wounding a lieutenant.

Paramedics said the lieutenant sustained injuries to his face and was evacuated by ambulance to a Jerusalem hospital in moderate-to-serious condition.

Local media reported a potential second wounded soldier.

Police spokeswoman, Luba Samri, said that security forces were scanning the area for more explosive devices.

The main road leading from the West Bank to Jerusalem was closed off to all traffic, she added.

Israel additionally blockaded Palestinian territories in the West Bank and the Gaza Strip as of Tuesday until Friday, according to a military notice.

Israel believes increased attacks are more likely to occur on Memorial Day by Palestinian militants and regular blockades of the occupied territories take place during that time.

The incident occurred during the seven-month-long Palestinian uprising, which included frequent stabbings, shootings, and car-ramming attacks.

The attacks killed 28 Israelis, with at least 203 Palestinians shot dead by Israeli fire, mainly during attempted attacks, according to Israel. Endit