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Israeli authorities have arrested a 15-year-old resident of northern Israel on suspicion of pledging allegiance to the Islamic State group and planning a terror attack, security officials confirmed on Thursday after the case was cleared for publication.
According to a joint statement from the Shin Bet, also known as the Israel Security Agency, and Israel Police, the minor had established contact with terrorist operatives based abroad and was actively influenced by extremist ideology promoted by Islamic State supporters.
Investigators said the teen took concrete and practical steps toward carrying out an attack. During questioning, security personnel discovered detailed written instructions for assembling an explosive belt, materials that authorities described as highly concerning given the suspect’s age.
Security officials believe the instructions were obtained through encrypted online platforms frequently used by extremist networks to recruit and radicalize young individuals across different regions, including the Middle East and Europe.
The investigation further revealed that the suspect openly expressed support for previous terror attacks against Israel. Interrogators said he also voiced hopes for the country’s destruction, adopting rhetoric consistent with Islamic State propaganda.
Authorities added that the teen engaged in extremist discourse targeting members of other religions. This included Christians and Muslims who do not adhere to the radical ideology promoted by the jihadist organization, reflecting a pattern of ideological indoctrination.
Senior security sources said the case highlights the growing challenge of online radicalization, particularly among minors who are exposed to extremist content through social media, messaging applications, and online forums.
“The security services will continue to act decisively against any threat to the State of Israel, regardless of the age of those involved,” an official familiar with the investigation said, stressing that prevention remains a top priority.
The arrest was carried out as part of broader counterterrorism efforts led by Lahav 433, the elite police unit tasked with serious and international crimes, working in close coordination with the Shin Bet and the Israel Defense Forces.
In a separate operation underscoring the scope of ongoing security activity, fighters from the Gideonim unit of Lahav 433, together with IDF and Shin Bet forces, recently arrested a wanted suspect in the heart of Ramallah during a targeted raid.
Security officials say such operations demonstrate the integrated approach used to disrupt terror networks, combining intelligence gathering, surveillance, and rapid-response arrest teams.
Experts warn that extremist organizations increasingly target teenagers, exploiting feelings of alienation, identity struggles, and political grievances to draw them into violent ideologies.
Israeli authorities have repeatedly cautioned parents and educators to remain vigilant about signs of radicalization, including sudden behavioral changes, aggressive rhetoric, and secretive online activity.
Legal proceedings against the minor are expected to continue under Israel’s juvenile justice framework, which balances security considerations with the suspect’s age and legal protections.
Officials emphasized that while the suspect is a minor, the severity of the alleged actions required swift intervention to prevent potential loss of life and maintain public safety.
The case has renewed debate within Israel about how to counter extremist recruitment online, particularly as terror organizations adapt their methods to reach younger audiences.
Security services say they will continue monitoring online platforms and international networks, warning that early detection and cooperation with families and communities are critical in preventing future attacks.
