Military Files Charges Against Terrorist Who Killed Israeli Reservist Yehuda Gato

The Israeli Military Prosecution has filed an indictment against Kamal Hatib, accused of orchestrating the terror attack that killed reservist Yehuda Gato in July 2024. Hatib, who served as a member, manager, and ultimately leader of the Nor al-Shams battalion, is charged with multiple terror offenses including the intentional killing of Gato.

According to the indictment, on July 1, 2024, Hatib and other militants remotely detonated an explosive device planted underground near Tulkarm targeting an Israeli security forces vehicle. The blast caused the vehicle to overturn, resulting in Gato being ejected and killed, while another individual was seriously injured and hospitalized. The explosive was triggered via a cellular device from a room in the Bala neighborhood.

Hatib is also accused of leading several terror operations, including recruiting operatives, managing observation and bomb-making units, smuggling weapons, and transferring funds and military equipment to militants. The charges include intentional joint murder, attempted murder, leading an illegal organization, arms trafficking, and bomb placement.

Hatib was arrested by the Palestinian Authority in February 2025 and has been held in Israeli custody since April 29, 2026. The Samaria Military Court ordered his detention until the conclusion of legal proceedings. The military prosecution stated it maintains ongoing contact with Yehuda Gato’s family and ensures they receive all legal rights due to them.