Ben-Gvir Assassination Plot via Drone Foiled, Israel Says
Israeli security services announced the indictment of two West Bank residents for planning a drone strike against the national security minister.
Key points
- Two Palestinians from Nablus were indicted for planning an assassination of Minister Ben-Gvir using an explosive drone.
- Authorities claim the suspects acquired a large arsenal of rifles and handguns while conducting shooting training since late 2023.
- Ben-Gvir stated on social media that this is the eleventh attempt on his life and vowed to continue his current policies.
Israeli authorities announced on Wednesday the indictment of two Palestinian men from the Nablus area in the northern West Bank for allegedly plotting to assassinate National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir.
According to a joint statement from the Shin Bet security agency and the police counterterrorism unit, the suspects had been engaged in armed activity since late 2023, acquiring a significant arsenal of weapons including M-16 and M-4 rifles, Kalashnikovs, and handguns.
The indictment further alleges that the pair conducted shooting training, recruited additional operatives, and discussed various attack plans targeting security forces. Investigators stated that the specific plan to target Ben-Gvir emerged in 2024 after one suspect watched a video of the minister arriving at the scene of a previous incident. The initial proposal involved an ambush-style attack, which later evolved into a scheme involving an explosive drone.
Alleged Drone Procurement Efforts
According to the case details, the suspect who proposed the drone attack attempted to secure assistance in purchasing drone parts from China. The indictment also includes allegations of plans for deadly attacks using explosive vehicles and drones against troops, as well as schemes for shooting attacks and the abduction of soldiers. Both men remain in custody pending the conclusion of their legal proceedings.
Minister's Public Response
Itamar Ben-Gvir responded to the news on social media, describing this as the eleventh attempt on his life. He stated that the incident would not deter him from pursuing his current political agenda. Specifically, he pledged to continue his strict policy regarding prisons, the demolition of construction in the Negev, and the implementation of the death penalty law recently passed by the legislature.
Pattern of Targeted Threats
This case marks the latest in a series of foiled plots targeting the leader of the Otzma Yehudit party, who has faced multiple assassination attempts in recent years. Roya News reports that the incident underscores the persistent security concerns surrounding high-profile political figures in the region. The authorities have emphasized the seriousness of the charges, citing the volume of weapons seized and the specific nature of the planned attacks.
As legal proceedings continue, attention turns to the broader implications of these allegations for regional security dynamics. Observers will be watching for any further revelations regarding the network of supporters allegedly involved in the plot, as well as the diplomatic and security responses from neighboring entities. The outcome of this trial may set a precedent for how such high-profile domestic security cases are handled in the coming months.
