Fourth Indictment Filed Against Northern Israel Resident for ISIS Affiliation

A 19-year-old resident of Shibli, identified as Yaqoub Shibli, has been indicted for joining the Islamic State (ISIS) terrorist organization. The indictment, filed Monday at the Nazareth Magistrate's Court, follows a joint investigation by the Northern District's Central Unit and the Shin Bet security agency. Shibli was arrested approximately three weeks ago and was found to have expressed explicit support for ISIS, viewed its materials, and sworn allegiance to the group.

The indictment charges him with aiding a terrorist organization. This marks the fourth such indictment in recent days against Arab residents from northern Israel for expressing support for ISIS.

Last week, an indictment was filed against Khamis Sawaed, a man in his 30s from Husseiniya, who allegedly also identified with ISIS. Investigations revealed Sawaed watched training materials on combat, weapons, and the manufacturing of missiles and drones, and conducted training sessions with the aim of joining the group abroad. He had previously served in the Israel Defense Forces.

According to his indictment, Sawaed developed increasing interest and ideological identification with ISIS from 2023 until his arrest last August. In 2024, he decided to travel to Syria or Africa to join the organization, studying its leaders' content and saving money. He downloaded guides and watched videos on producing missiles and drones, weapon usage, and military tactics to advance the group's activities before his apprehension.