Israeli Math Professor Charged With Plotting Mass Attacks on Arab Citizens

An Israeli math professor is facing serious charges for allegedly planning a series of attacks targeting hundreds of Arab citizens in Israel, East Jerusalem residents, and Palestinians. The indictment, filed Monday by the Israeli prosecution, accuses the man, in his sixties and a resident of Petah Tikva, of developing the plot over three years with nationalist and ideological motives. Prosecutors claim the professor named his plan "Et" (meaning "time" or "era") and aimed to carry out simultaneous attacks to cause mass casualties and force Arabs to leave Israel and other areas for Jordan, Lebanon, and Gaza.

The indictment details that the professor began his plan in February 2023, conducting field preparations, creating detailed documents, and attempting to recruit participants. He allegedly envisioned forming 12 cells with 72 individuals, at least half of whom would be licensed to carry weapons, using firearms, axes, and hammers. The planned attacks were to be simultaneous and surprise assaults in Arab towns and mixed cities across Israel. The prosecution also alleges the professor sought assistance from elements within the Israeli military, including using the air force, artillery, and armored vehicles against Arab residential areas.

According to the charges, the professor conducted reconnaissance missions, including surveying the area around the northern town of Tuba-Zangariyye, as one of his primary targets. For about a year and a half, he tried to recruit supporters for the plan, but his efforts were unsuccessful. The indictment also states the professor attempted to contact Moshe Feiglin, leader of the Zehut party, to recruit him and enlist his help in recruiting other activists. The professor attended two of Feiglin's events and tried to arrange a meeting to present his plan, but Feiglin did not respond. About a month ago, the professor sent Feiglin a blackmail letter, threatening to expose him if he did not cooperate. Feiglin and his party stated they immediately reported the messages to the police.

Prosecutors also accuse the professor of taking measures to conceal his activities, such as writing documents by hand, providing instructions on hiding identities, using disguises like masks and hats during recruitment meetings, using a pseudonym, and employing others' phones for communication. During his interrogation, the professor reportedly stated he did not see himself as a danger, requested release to house arrest, and claimed he fully stood behind his actions. He also requested not to be held with Muslim prisoners, expressing fear for his safety.

Bar-Ilan University, where the professor taught, issued a statement condemning the alleged actions and announcing his immediate suspension pending the judicial proceedings. The university emphasized its zero tolerance for such acts and pledged cooperation with authorities. The charges remain subject to trial proceedings, and their filing does not constitute proof of guilt.