Israeli Teen Accused of Pledging Allegiance to ISIS, Planning Attacks
New details have emerged regarding a 19-year-old man from Shibli in the Lower Galilee, who is accused of pledging allegiance to the Islamic State (ISIS) and receiving instructions on how to carry out attacks. The indictment, filed following a joint investigation by the Shin Bet and the Northern District's Central Unit of the Israel Police, alleges the young man began engaging with ISIS ideology in December and rapidly became more identified with the group.
According to the indictment, the suspect created a fake Twitter account and joined a group that disseminated ISIS content. A user in the group contacted him, and after learning he lived in Israel, encouraged him to carry out attacks and provided him with guides on making bombs and explosives, as well as information on using poisons against people. This exchange lasted about two weeks.
The suspect then watched a video of an ISIS pledge of allegiance, recited the oath aloud, and swore loyalty to the organization and its leader. He also took steps to conceal his online activities, using an anonymous browser and encrypted communication methods.
The indictment details a progression from interest in ISIS ideology to joining online groups, corresponding with an individual who encouraged attacks, receiving instructional materials, and ultimately pledging allegiance to the terrorist organization. The charges against the young man are allegations that have not yet been proven in court.
