Stolen IDF Rocket Launcher Fired at Israeli Residential Area; Weapons Seized

Israeli police are investigating the firing of an anti-tank rocket, believed to have been stolen from the Israel Defense Forces (IDF), at a residential compound in Jaljuliya. Security forces are conducting extensive searches for suspects and additional weapons.

This incident follows a similar firing of an anti-tank rocket at a home in the northern town of Sajur just days earlier. Officials familiar with the matter expressed concern over the escalating use of stolen military-grade weapons by crime families, urging the IDF to implement stricter measures to prevent the leakage of arms.

"It's time the army takes the strictest possible steps to prevent the leakage of weapons to criminal organizations that endanger public safety and security," one source stated. "It is unacceptable that anti-tank rockets stolen from army bases are circulating among criminal organizations. These weapons are easily obtained from the army by criminals, and this is a very serious phenomenon."

The use of stolen IDF weaponry is reportedly expanding, with crime organizations also employing explosive drones. In 2023, there were 75 criminal incidents involving explosive grenades, a number that surged to 988 in 2024. Police have recently intensified their operations against these organizations, seizing approximately 7 kilograms of explosives, bomb-making materials, two handguns, and magazines stolen from the IDF.

During a search in Taybeh, police found explosives and components for improvised explosive devices. In Kafr Qasim, officers discovered two Glock 19 handguns, a loaded magazine, and additional magazines for long firearms, also suspected of being stolen from the IDF. Four suspects were arrested in connection with these seizures and are undergoing investigation.