Israeli Forces Arrest Hebron Imam Near Cave of the Patriarchs for Incitement and Terror Encouragement

Israeli security forces arrested a 70-year-old Palestinian imam from Hebron on suspicion of inciting violence and encouraging terrorist attacks. The arrest was carried out by the operational unit "Arrow of Judah" of the Judea and Samaria district, following intelligence monitoring by the Central Command of social media content suspected of promoting unrest and terrorism. The operation took place approximately 200 meters from the Cave of the Patriarchs, where over 14,000 worshippers were present under extensive security involving hundreds of police officers, Border Police fighters, IDF troops, and rapid response volunteers.

The arrest resulted from coordinated intelligence efforts between the Judea and Samaria district command center and Central Command monitoring units specialized in tracking inciting online content. Security forces raided the imam's home while he was gardening in his yard. Initial investigations suggest the suspect had been actively encouraging terror acts, violence, and disturbances across Judea and Samaria through social media over an extended period. During the search, authorities confiscated his mobile phone and laptop, which were taken along with him for further police investigation.