Shin Bet Thwarts Assassination Plot Against Minister Ben-Gvir Using Drone

The Shin Bet and Israeli Police have exposed a terrorist cell from Nablus that had amassed a significant arsenal of weapons, conducted live-fire training, and planned multiple attacks, including the assassination of National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir and the kidnapping of an IDF soldier. According to the indictment, the plot to assassinate Ben-Gvir involved a "lure attack" where the terrorists would wait for him to arrive at a scene and then use an explosive-laden drone. The two suspects, arrested by the Counter-Terrorism Unit of the Judea and Samaria District and the Shin Bet, began their activities in late 2023, recruiting additional operatives and planning attacks against Israeli civilians and security forces. Their arsenal reportedly included M-16 and M-4 rifles, Kalashnikovs, handguns, a hunting rifle, and ammunition.

The plan to target Minister Ben-Gvir emerged in 2024 after the suspects observed a video of him visiting a terror attack site. One suspect proposed the lure attack, with the assassination to be carried out by an explosive drone. One of the individuals attempted to procure drone parts from China for this purpose. The investigation also uncovered plans for other attacks using booby-trapped vehicles and drones against Israelis and security forces, as well as plans for shooting attacks and soldier abductions.

Following their arrests, which were extended periodically, the military prosecution filed indictments against the two individuals, who are being held until the end of legal proceedings. Minister Ben-Gvir commented on the thwarted assassination attempt, stating it was the eleventh attempt on his life. He asserted that such threats would not deter him from his policies, including strict measures in prisons and the demolition of illegal construction in the Negev, and ensuring the death penalty law is implemented. He also expressed gratitude to the security forces for their work in protecting him.