Ex-IDF Soldier Charged With Preparing to Join ISIS, Learning Weapons Manufacturing

A former Israel Defense Forces (IDF) soldier, Khamis Suaed, 30, from the village of Husseiniya, has been indicted for training and preparing to join the Islamic State (ISIS) terrorist organization. The indictment, filed by the State Attorney's Office in the Haifa Magistrate's Court, alleges that Suaed, who served in the IDF between 2017 and 2019, developed an ideological identification with ISIS starting in 2023.

According to the prosecution, Suaed decided in 2024 to travel to Syria or Africa to join ISIS. As part of his preparations, he reportedly watched content from ISIS leaders and began saving money. The indictment further claims that in 2026, Suaed downloaded guides and watched videos on manufacturing missiles and drones, using weapons, and military tactics.

Prosecutors contend these actions were intended to advance ISIS's activities and prepare Suaed for combat with the group abroad. Suaed was arrested in August, following an investigation that began after he showed interest in the organization in 2023. He faces charges of training or instruction for terrorist purposes. The legal proceedings are ongoing in the Haifa Magistrate's Court, and his guilt has not yet been determined.