Bar Ilan University Lecturer Accused of Plotting Mass Attacks on Arabs

The identity of Shahar Nivo, a lecturer in the mathematics department at Bar Ilan University, was revealed on Wednesday after a gag order was lifted. Nivo, approximately 60 years old, is accused by Israeli prosecutors of planning extensive attacks against hundreds of Arab citizens over more than three years. The indictment states Nivo began formulating the plan in February 2023, influenced by the May 2021 events, and intensified his efforts after October 7, 2023.

Prosecutors allege Nivo prepared detailed documents, conducted reconnaissance in Arab areas, and attempted to recruit accomplices for simultaneous attacks aimed at killing large numbers of Arabs and forcing others to flee to Jordan, Lebanon, and Gaza. He is also accused of trying to form armed groups and seeking assistance from individuals within the Israeli military.

Nivo reportedly contacted former Knesset member Moshe Feiglin to help recruit people for his plan, but Feiglin refused to cooperate. Following this refusal, Nivo is accused of attempting to blackmail and threaten Feiglin with messages that could harm his public standing, prompting Feiglin to file a police complaint.

To conceal his activities, Nivo allegedly used handwritten documents, a pseudonym, disguises during meetings, and phones belonging to others. He was arrested on September 17 and prosecutors are seeking his detention until the legal proceedings conclude. He faces charges including preparation for an act of terror, blackmail by threat, and obstruction of justice.

Bar Ilan University announced its condemnation of the alleged actions and has suspended Nivo pending the legal process, stating his alleged conduct contradicts the university's values. Nivo's official university profile indicates his research focuses on complex analysis and operator theory.