Five East Jerusalem Residents Charged with Planning Terror Attacks

Five residents of East Jerusalem have been indicted on serious terrorism charges, accused of establishing a terror organization and planning attacks against Israelis and security forces. The indictment details plans to carry out attacks, including at a restaurant in Modi'in and at the Azariya checkpoint.

The organization was reportedly founded earlier this year by Rashid Rashk and Mahmoud Abu Zbeih, who sought to recruit members, acquire weapons, raise funds, and secure safe houses. Their alleged plan included establishing cells in northern and southern Judea and Samaria, preparing for a "day of command" in early 2027 to launch terror and murder attacks.

According to the indictment, Rashk recruited Ahmad Bakri, an employee at the Modi'in restaurant, and tasked him with carrying out an attack there. Bakri was instructed to remain employed at the restaurant to facilitate the planned attack, with Rashk promising to supply weapons and training.

Rashk and Abu Zbeih also allegedly planned a shooting attack against security forces at the Azariya checkpoint. Rashk reportedly purchased a handgun, an M-16 rifle, ammunition, and other equipment for these purposes. Another recruit, Muhammad Abu Zbeih, allegedly managed funds for the organization and assisted in hiding weapons and finding safe houses.

The prosecution stated that the defendants face charges including managing and actively participating in a terror organization, conspiracy and preparation for murder, weapons offenses, and recruiting members. Attorney Eyal Lidani from the Jerusalem District Prosecutor's Office highlighted the severity of the plan to use an employee's access to a restaurant for an attack, emphasizing the detailed knowledge of the location intended for use.