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Three Palestinian residents of Hebron were indicted this week for allegedly forming a terror cell with the intent to assassinate Israel’s National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir and his son, according to an announcement from Israeli authorities.
The suspects, identified as Ismail Ibrahim Awadi and two unnamed accomplices, face charges related to planning attacks against high-profile Israeli figures and security forces.
The indictment revealed that Awadi, the primary suspect, began forming the terror cell in June 2024. Investigations suggest that he sought to acquire weapons, explosives, and gather intelligence on Ben-Gvir’s travel routes and security details.
The police and Shin Bet, Israel’s internal security agency, uncovered that Awadi had contacted Hamas and Hezbollah for funding and support to carry out the attacks.
Following the indictment, Minister Ben-Gvir expressed his gratitude to the West Bank District Police and Shin Bet for their swift and thorough actions in foiling the plot.
“Thanks to their relentless efforts and, by the grace of God, another attempt by the enemy to harm me and my family has been thwarted,” Ben-Gvir stated, emphasizing his commitment to combating terrorism.
He further reiterated his stance on toughening prison conditions for terrorists, bolstering Israeli sovereignty, and dismantling illegal structures in the West Bank.
In response to the investigation, West Bank District Commander, Commissioner Moshe Finchi, highlighted the scale of counterterrorism efforts since the start of the ongoing conflict.
“Since the beginning of the war, the counterterrorism investigation units of the West Bank District have carried out thousands of detailed interrogations involving terrorists affiliated with organizations in the West Bank and Gaza,” Finchi said.
“This case was one of the most intricate, and the tireless work of our investigators, alongside Shin Bet agents, was critical in its resolution.”
The terror cell’s plot, if successful, would have been a significant blow to Israeli officials, with Ben-Gvir being a high-profile target due to his role as National Security Minister.
The arrest and indictment underscore the ongoing efforts by militant groups to target Israeli public figures and security forces, and the commitment of Israeli authorities to neutralize such threats before they materialize.
“The successful arrest and prosecution of this terror cell represent a crucial step in our ongoing battle against terrorism,” Finchi added.
“We will continue to act decisively, in full coordination with all security agencies, to ensure the safety of our citizens and public officials.”
The investigation has drawn attention to the persistent threats faced by Israeli security personnel, particularly those in high-ranking positions.
The thwarted assassination attempt is a reminder of the volatile security situation in the region and the constant vigilance required by Israeli authorities to protect its leaders from terrorist activities.