In a joint operation by the Shin Bet and IDF, security forces arrested a Hamas terror cell from the Hebron area in recent weeks after the group allegedly operated under Hamas command in Turkey with plans to execute an assassination attack against National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir.
Shin Bet investigation revealed that during their activities, the suspects purchased multiple drones on which they planned to mount explosives to execute the attack. The drones were confiscated during their arrest.
In November 2024, authorities filed an indictment against another cell that attempted to assassinate Ben-Gvir. According to the indictment, Ismael Ibrahim Awwadi, the primary defendant, began working in June 2024 to establish a military cell aimed at harming Israeli security forces and civilians. During his activities, Awwadi established contact with Hamas and Hezbollah terror organizations, attempting to secure funding and guidance for the cell's operations. He also worked to acquire weapons and produce explosive devices.
According to the charges, Awwadi conducted systematic surveillance of National Security Minister Ben-Gvir's travel routes and his son, collecting intelligence on the types of vehicles they use and the number of security personnel around them. Among the options considered was attempting to harm the minister when he arrives at attack scenes – a routine practice as part of his official duties.
The minister responded by thanking the acting Shin Bet chief, investigators and operatives of the organization, intelligence services, Prison Service personnel, Magen unit members, IDF soldiers, Israel Police officers, and all those working to protect his life. "I will not be deterred or afraid!" the minister stated, adding, "Hamas has already tried five times to eliminate me, and each time failed, including this time."
"I will continue leading a tough policy in Israeli prisons against terror, demanding absolute victory in Gaza and erasing Hamas from the map. The terrorists need to know: instead of them harming me, we will harm them, everywhere and at any time," he concluded.
