Palestinians Charged with Plotting to Assassinate Israeli Minister Ben-Gvir Using Drone

Two Palestinians from Nablus have been indicted for allegedly planning a series of terror attacks, including the assassination of National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir using a "kamikaze" drone and the kidnapping of an Israel Defense Forces soldier. The Shin Bet security agency and Israeli police announced the charges on Wednesday, September 23, according to Ynet. The cell was reportedly uncovered by the central command of the Judea and Samaria police district in cooperation with the Shin Bet.

According to the indictment, the two men had been operating together since late 2023, acquiring M16 and M4 rifles, Kalashnikovs, pistols, a hunting rifle, and ammunition. They allegedly conducted shooting practice, recruited other members, and discussed attacks against Israeli civilians and security forces. The plot to kill Ben-Gvir reportedly emerged in 2024 after the men watched a video of the minister visiting a terror attack site. One suspect then proposed a "decoy attack" to lure Ben-Gvir to the scene and assassinate him, later suggesting the use of an explosive-laden drone and attempting to procure parts from China.

"The investigation revealed that they were preparing deadly attacks against Israeli citizens and security forces using vehicles and drones with explosives, as well as planning armed attacks and the kidnapping of IDF soldiers," stated a joint release from the Shin Bet and police. The suspects' detention was repeatedly extended by the court following their arrest. Military prosecutors in Samaria have now filed charges based on evidence gathered by the police and Shin Bet. The two men will remain in custody until the conclusion of their trial.

Minister Ben-Gvir commented on the alleged plot, stating, "This is already the 11th attempt to kill me, and God saves me from them. I have a message for all these enemies: this will not stop me or frighten me. I will continue to implement a tough policy in the prisons, continue the policy of demolishing illegal structures in the Negev, and continue to ensure that the death penalty law we passed is applied and executed."