Israeli Security Forces Foil Planned ISIS-Inspired Car Bomb Attack in Beersheba Club

Abdallah Gargawi, a 20-year-old resident of Segev Shalom, was arrested on July 19, 2026, on suspicion of planning a terrorist attack targeting the Forum nightclub in Beersheba. According to a joint investigation by the Israeli Police and the Shin Bet, Gargawi had been exposed for an extended period to ISIS-related content online, identified with the group's ideology, and maintained contact with individuals posing as Palestinian terrorist operatives. He also participated in Telegram groups exchanging ISIS and terrorism-related materials.

The investigation revealed that Gargawi was actively preparing explosives and assembling a bomb intended for a car bombing attack at the nightclub. Additionally, he was found to possess a significant cache of illegal weapons and ammunition, including an M16-style firearm with standard parts, a MAG, a Kalashnikov, and a Negev rifle, which he reportedly used to fire shots in an open area during March and April 2026.

The Southern District Prosecutor's Office filed a serious indictment against Gargawi this morning at the Beersheba District Court, charging him with security offenses and illegal possession of weapons and ammunition. Authorities emphasized that the planned attack was thwarted before it could be executed, crediting the coordinated efforts of the police and Shin Bet. Both agencies underscored their commitment to preventing terrorist activities by Israeli citizens and prosecuting offenders to the fullest extent of the law.