Israeli Security Forces Arrest Negev Resident for Planning Car Bomb Attack in Beersheba

Israeli police and the Shin Bet security service arrested Abdullah Gargawi, a 20-year-old resident of the Negev settlement of Segev Shalom, on suspicion of planning a terrorist attack in Beersheba using a car bomb. The arrest took place on July 19, 2026, following a joint investigation by the Southern District police and Shin Bet. Authorities revealed that Gargawi had contact with a foreign agent, possessed illegal weapons, and intended to carry out terror activities in the city.

Investigations showed that Gargawi was exposed for an extended period to ISIS-related content on social media, sympathized with the group's ideology, and consumed terrorist materials. He also communicated with online contacts, including someone posing as a Palestinian terrorist, and participated in Telegram groups sharing ISIS and terror-related content. He took steps to prepare explosives and manufacture a bomb as part of his plan to attack the "Forum" club in Beersheba.

During March and April 2026, Gargawi allegedly possessed an illegal M16-type weapon with standard parts, accessories, and ammunition, and fired it in an open area. In 2025, he reportedly kept multiple firearms at his home, including a MAC-10, Kalashnikov, Negev rifle, M16, magazines, and ammunition. Following the investigation, the Southern District Prosecutor's Office filed a serious indictment against him at the Beersheba District Court for security offenses and illegal possession of weapons and ammunition.

Police and Shin Bet emphasized the severity of the case, noting that the suspect's terror plans were thwarted before execution through their coordinated efforts. They reiterated their commitment to combating any involvement of Israeli citizens in terrorism and to enforcing the law strictly against those who seek to harm Israeli civilians and residents.