Terror Cell Planned to Kidnap Soldier, Assassinate Minister Ben-Gvir with Drone
The Israel Security Agency (Shin Bet) and the Judea and Samaria District's Counter-Terrorism Unit have exposed a dangerous terror cell operating near the West Bank city of Nablus (Shechem). Two Palestinian operatives from Nablus were involved in extensive terror planning, acquiring weapons, conducting firing drills, recruiting operatives, and plotting deadly attacks.
Following an investigation, indictments were filed against the cell members. The indictment details that the two men collaborated from late 2023 to advance 'military' activities. They amassed a significant arsenal, including M-16, M-4, and Kalashnikov rifles, handguns, a hunting rifle, and ammunition. They also worked to recruit and train additional operatives, practicing firing drills and discussing various attack methods against Israeli civilians and security forces.
The investigation revealed that in 2024, the operatives conceived a plan to assassinate National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir. After watching a video of the minister arriving at a terror attack scene, one of the operatives suggested ambushing Ben-Gvir. He later proposed using an explosive-laden drone for the assassination and attempted to procure drone parts from China for this purpose. The cell also planned shooting attacks, explosive vehicle and drone attacks against Israeli civilians and security forces, and the kidnapping of IDF soldiers.
Their arrests were repeatedly extended by the court. With sufficient evidence gathered by the Shin Bet and the counter-terrorism unit, the military prosecution filed indictments and is seeking their detention until the legal proceedings conclude. The Israel Police and Shin Bet stated they will continue to act decisively to thwart terror infrastructures and bring perpetrators to justice.
Minister Ben-Gvir commented on the assassination attempt, stating, "This is the 11th time they have tried to assassinate me, and God Almighty saves me from them! I have a message for all those enemies: this will not deter me or frighten me. I will continue to lead a harsh policy in the prisons, continue to lead the policy of demolishing illegal construction in the Negev, and continue to ensure that the death penalty law we passed is enacted and implemented." He added that his adversaries fear his potential appointment as Defense Minister because they know he is uncompromising. Ben-Gvir thanked God, the Shin Bet, the Israel Police, the IDF, and the Magen unit for their protection.