Terror Cell Charged with Plotting Assassination of Israeli Minister Ben-Gvir

An indictment was filed Wednesday against a terror cell from the Nablus area, comprised of two Palestinians who allegedly planned deadly attacks, acquired weapons, conducted weapons training, recruited operatives, and plotted assassinations. Among their planned actions was an attempt to assassinate Israel's Minister of National Security, Itamar Ben-Gvir, using an explosive-laden drone.

The two men reportedly operated together since 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 shooting and discussing various attack methods against Israeli civilians and security forces.

During their investigation, it was revealed that in 2024, the pair conceived the idea to target the National Security Minister. According to the indictment, after watching a video of Ben-Gvir arriving at a terror attack scene, one of the operatives suggested a "pulling attack," waiting for the minister to arrive and then assassinating him. He later proposed using an explosive drone for the assassination and attempted to procure drone parts from China for this purpose. The investigation also uncovered plans for other deadly attacks using explosive vehicles and drones against Israelis and security forces, as well as planned shooting attacks and the kidnapping of IDF soldiers.

Separately, a serious indictment was filed against an East Jerusalem Israeli who allegedly sold weapons to a terrorist planning to murder Minister Ben-Gvir. The arrests of the two primary suspects were extended pending legal proceedings. The military prosecution in Samaria filed the indictments after evidence was gathered by the counter-terrorism unit of the Judea and Samaria District, along with the Shin Bet.

Minister Ben-Gvir responded, stating this was the eleventh attempt on his life and that he would not be deterred. He vowed to continue his policies regarding prisons and the demolition of illegal construction in the Negev, and to implement the death penalty law. He added that his adversaries fear him because he is uncompromising and acts on his word, noting that terrorists he met in prison were visibly fearful. He thanked the Shin Bet, Israel Police, IDF, and the Magen unit for his protection.