Shin Bet Reports Surge in Negev Bedouin Arrests for Security Offenses

The Shin Bet, under the direction of David Zini, has reported that since the beginning of 2026, 72 residents of the Negev and southern regions have been implicated in cases related to defense or "near-defense" offenses. Of these, 67 are Israeli citizens, while the remainder are undocumented Bedouins. Detainees are suspected of planning terrorist attacks, smuggling weapons from Egypt and Jordan, and other activities threatening state security. Indictments have already been filed against 50 individuals.

This data aligns with a security threat assessment concerning Bedouins that Zini presented to the cabinet this week. Defense officials emphasize this reflects a real trend of radicalization, terrorist planning, and attempts to form "operational capabilities" by certain groups in the south. The Shin Bet has identified specific cells, including one in Segev Shalom, whose members were arrested in May-June for allegedly planning to establish a "combat unit" modeled after terrorist brigades in Judea and Samaria. This unit reportedly intended to carry out attacks against Israeli targets.

One suspect from Segev Shalom allegedly planned a shooting attack near a local police station and a stabbing and shooting attack at the central bus station in Beersheba. He was also reportedly studying instructions for making explosives. Another detainee was preparing to act as a "battalion sapper," responsible for creating explosive devices for use against police and military transport. A fourth individual confessed to planning a separate bombing attack in a public place, expressing support for ISIS and a desire to carry out a stabbing attack in its name.

In July, the Shin Bet arrested Abdullah Jarjoui, also from Segev Shalom, who allegedly planned an attack on the "Forum" disco in Beersheba. He reportedly maintained contact with ISIS sympathizers and expressed solidarity with other terrorist organizations, including Hamas. Recent investigations reveal a growing phenomenon of groups in various communities planning attacks against police stations, civilian targets, and soldiers. The Shin Bet observes attempts to create paramilitary infrastructures and "battalions," with some cases involving practical steps like weapon acquisition, training, and recruitment.

Zini noted that "amateur formations" are regularly exposed in some Bedouin periphery areas, alongside attempts to establish more organized structures. The Segev Shalom group is cited as a prime example. The motivations behind these groups vary, with some showing influence from Hamas and others adhering to a broader Islamist ideology like ISIS. The Shin Bet also points to the role of weapons accessibility, facilitated by smuggling and criminal activity, in enabling the transition from radical ideology to operational action.