Shin Bet Exposes Plot by Negev Residents to Form Militia

The Shin Bet revealed on Thursday that since the beginning of 2026, 72 residents of the Negev and southern Israel have been arrested on suspicion of security offenses endangering the state. Of these detainees, 67 are Israeli citizens with "blue" identity cards, and indictments have been filed against approximately 50.

One significant case involves five young residents of Segev Shalom who were arrested in May and June. According to the Shin Bet, these individuals planned to advance terror activities and establish a military-style battalion in their town, inspired by battalions in the West Bank. Their alleged plans included carrying out attacks through various methods.

Investigators found that the cell's leader actively worked to establish the battalion, driven by Palestinian sympathies, and incited against Israel on social media. Another member reportedly agreed to carry out a shooting attack at the Segev Shalom police station and a stabbing and shooting attack at the central bus station in Beersheba. This suspect also studied videos on bomb-making. A third suspect agreed to join the battalion as an "engineer" responsible for preparing explosives against security forces.

Another young man, according to the Shin Bet, planned an independent bombing attack after his release from custody. His interrogation revealed support for the Islamic State and a plan to carry out a stabbing attack in its name. A fifth suspect agreed to join the battalion and attack the Segev Shalom police station.

In a separate incident in July, Abdullah Jarajra, an Israeli citizen and resident of Segev Shalom, was arrested. The Shin Bet stated his interrogation revealed he incited terrorism, planned an attack at the Forum club in Beersheba, was in contact with Islamic State operatives, and expressed intent to join their combat zones abroad. He identified with groups including the Islamic State and Hamas.

The Shin Bet reported that serious indictments for terror offenses have been filed this year against those involved in these cases at the Beersheba District Court. A senior Shin Bet official noted these incidents highlight the risk posed by cells of Israeli citizens, including paramilitary-style groups, aiming to carry out attacks within Israel, and credited the Shin Bet and Israel Police with thwarting these plans.