Israeli Citizen from Nazareth Arrested for Attempting to Join Hamas and Target Government Minister

A 29-year-old Israeli citizen from Nazareth, Mohammad Awad, was arrested on suspicion of attempting to join Hamas and advance terrorist activities. According to an investigation by the Shin Bet and police, Awad sought to recruit resources from Hamas to facilitate his plans. During the inquiry, authorities uncovered a particularly sensitive target: a current Israeli government minister. Details about the minister's identity and the specific attack plan remain classified. The arrest was made in a joint operation by the Shin Bet and the Northern District police's YAMAR unit. Following the investigation, the Northern District Prosecutor's Office filed a prosecutor's statement against Awad at the Nazareth Magistrate's Court, a preliminary step before formal indictment. Security officials emphasized the severity of Israeli citizens' involvement in activities threatening national security and pledged to continue using all available means to identify and prosecute those engaged in terrorism.