Israeli Arab Charged with Aiding Hamas and Iranian Intelligence

A joint investigation by the Shin Bet and the Northern District's special unit has led to the indictment of Sultan Abu Alheijaa, a 31-year-old resident of Tamra, for security offenses. Abu Alheijaa is accused of attempting to assist the Hamas terror organization and of contacting Iranian intelligence agents.

According to the security agencies, Abu Alheijaa repeatedly contacted the Izz ad-Din al-Qassam Brigades, Hamas's military wing in Gaza, offering covert assistance. The specific nature of the aid he proposed and whether Hamas responded or if any practical connection was formed remain unclear. The investigation highlighted the seriousness of attempting to aid a terror group from within Israel.

Further revelations indicated that Abu Alheijaa also established contact with Iranian intelligence. However, the Shin Bet and police stated that he was apprehended before he could carry out any missions for them. His arrest occurred on August 28, 2026, during a joint operation by the Shin Bet and the Northern District's special unit, with the apprehension carried out by the Northern National Guard in the Border Police.

The Haifa District Prosecutor's Office is expected to file the indictment at the Haifa District Court. While the charges are classified as security offenses, a full breakdown of the indictment's specifics has not yet been released. The security agencies emphasized the gravity they attribute to any involvement by Israeli citizens that endangers the state and its residents, vowing to continue investigating such activities and prosecute those involved.

The joint statement from the Shin Bet and police conveyed a message of determination in thwarting connections with enemy entities and addressing suspicions of aiding terrorism. In this specific case, the agencies noted that the arrest prevented Abu Alheijaa from completing any tasks for the Iranian intelligence contacts he had made.