Ex-IDF Soldier Charged With Planning to Join ISIS

An indictment has been filed against Khamis Suaed, a 30-year-old resident of Husniyya in the Galilee who previously served in the Israel Defense Forces (IDF), for allegedly developing an ideological affinity with the Islamic State (ISIS) and planning to join its ranks.

According to the indictment, Suaed served in the IDF between 2017 and 2019. Starting in 2023, he reportedly developed a growing interest in ISIS, consuming online content and videos associated with the terrorist organization. In 2024, he allegedly decided to leave Israel and join ISIS in Syria or Africa to fight against what he considered "infidels."

Suaed is accused of taking several preparatory steps. These included watching videos of executions and beheadings for "mental preparation," studying weapon usage, and researching the production of missiles and drones. He also allegedly saved money for his planned departure and joined the organization. His preparations reportedly continued until his arrest on August 2.

The indictment, filed by the Haifa District Prosecutor's Office, charges Suaed with undergoing training or instruction for terrorist purposes under the Counter-Terrorism Law. Prosecutors are seeking his detention until the end of legal proceedings and may request a prison sentence upon conviction. The Shin Bet and police stated they are committed to combating activities that endanger national security, including actions by Israeli citizens seeking to act on behalf of terrorist organizations against Israelis.