A resistance bomber has carried out an attack in the Israeli coastal town of Netanya, injuring more than 20 people, police have said. The explosion happened outside a cafe on a busy road in the centre of the town. There has been no immediate claim of responsibility. Initial reports indicated that only the bomber was killed but at least three of the injured were believed to be in a serious condition, Israel radio reported.

Witnesses said a man tried to enter the London Cafe located in a pedestrian area of Netanya at about 1 pm local time.

He was challenged by security guards and then detonated explosives strapped to his body, they said.

Deadliest Bombing

Netanya, about 50 kilometres north of Tel Aviv, has been a frequent target, partly because of its proximity to the West Bank.

In March last year, it was the scene of the single deadliest attack in the 30-month Palestinian uprising.

A resistance bomber targeted the Park Hotel during Passover, killing 29 people taking part in a holiday meal.

In the last resistance bombing in Israel on 5 March, 17 people were killed.

The Islamic resistance group Hamas said it was behind that attack.

PHOTO CAPTION

A resistance bomber has carried out an attack in the Israeli coastal town of Netanya, injuring more than 20 people, police have said.