Israel Foils Hamas Cell Planning Attacks Hours Before Operation

Israeli security forces dismantled a Hamas terror infrastructure in the village of Aqaba in the Samaria region on Sunday, arresting ten operatives who were planning attacks against Israeli civilians. The operation, which was based on months of intelligence gathering by the Shin Bet and took place just hours before the planned attacks, also uncovered an improvised rocket containing explosives, along with weapons and materials used for making bombs.

The raid was conducted by the IDF's Menashe Brigade, with the Shin Bet directing the operation. Forces involved included the elite counter-terrorism unit Yamam, the Duvdevan Unit, and the 890 and 50 paratrooper battalions.

During the operation, Yamam fighters found the improvised rocket, which lacked a launcher, and it was immediately detonated in the field. In a separate discovery, one of the arrested operatives led forces to a pit near a tree, where explosives for bomb-making and disassembled M16 rifle parts were found. Border Police sappers destroyed the explosives on-site, and the seized weapon was confiscated.

A joint statement from the IDF and Shin Bet indicated that the ten individuals were actively working to advance terror plots targeting Israeli citizens. The statement emphasized that security forces would continue proactive operations to thwart terrorism in the Judea and Samaria region to ensure the safety of residents and Israeli citizens.