Over 30 arrested as Israel foils Hamas-linked terror network
Indictments have already been filed against five of the operatives, while the rest remain under investigation
Over 30 terror operatives have been arrested in a joint operation on Tuesday across Jerusalem and the West Bank.
The Shin Bet, Israel Police, and IDF carried out the joint operation against an extensive network affiliated with Hamas that planned to carry out attacks against Israelis and the security forces.
Indictments have already been filed against five of the operatives, while the rest are being interrogated as the investigation continues.
Several notable people were arrested as part of the operation, including Rashid Rishek, who was released in the January 2025 hostage deal. Rishek was involved in a stabbing attack on the Temple Mountand was later involved in a plot to assassinate National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir, attack a parade, and kidnap soldiers.
Despite his release in January 2025, i24NEWS reported earlier this week that Rishek had attempted to purchase an M16 rifle, scope, magazine, and 50 bullets for only 3,000 shekels.
The other members of the Hamas affiliated 'Shabab al-Aqsa' terror network were Sabih Abu Sabih, the son of Misbah Abu Sbeih, who carried out a 2016 drive-by terror attack, killing 2, Mohammed Abu Sabih, Mohammed Azmi Bakri and Ahmed Azmi Bakri. All five have been indicted on terror-related offenses and charges related to illegal arms purchases..
The Jerusalem District Attorney's Office filed a indictments against the five, charging them, each with the offenses of managing a terrorist organization, active membership in a terrorist organization, conspiracy and preparation for a terrorist act of murder under aggravated circumstances, weapons and property offenses for terrorist purposes, recruitment and attempted recruitment of members of a terrorist organization, as well as other offenses.
It was only after arresting these initial suspects that the security services uncovered a "broad terrorist network" that aimed to recruit and train military-style terrorist cells to carry out attacks against Israelis and members of the security forces.
Indictments against the remaining suspects, who are all residents of the West Bank, are expected to be submitted in the coming days.