East Jerusalem Man Charged with Selling Weapons to Hamas Operative Targeting Minister Ben-Gvir

An indictment has been filed against Mohammed Salhab, an East Jerusalem resident holding a blue identity card, for allegedly selling weapons, including an M16 rifle, to Hamas operative Rasheed Rishk. Rishk, who has a significant security background, was convicted at 15 for involvement in a stabbing attack and later for planning to harm police officers on the Temple Mount. He also headed a cell that planned to assassinate National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir, carry out a suicide bombing during the Flag Day parade, and abduct soldiers. Although sentenced to nearly 14 years, Rishk was released in January 2023 as part of a hostage deal.

According to the indictment, Salhab was aware of Rishk's past and his ties to Hamas but sold him the weapons for a profit of only 3,000 shekels. Rishk also asked Salhab to teach him how to manufacture explosives, to which Salhab allegedly agreed. Following the initial sale, Rishk attempted to purchase an additional handgun and rifle from Salhab, but these deals fell through due to insufficient funds.

In response to the case, Minister Ben-Gvir stated that he has been targeted multiple times due to his policies and vowed not to be deterred. He reiterated his commitment to advancing his "710 Disengagement" plan to expel Gaza residents, strengthen governance on the Temple Mount, toughen conditions for terrorists in prisons, and implement the death penalty for terrorists. Ben-Gvir thanked the Shin Bet, the "Magen" unit, the Prison Service, the Israel Police, and all security forces for thwarting threats and protecting him and his family.