‘Israel’ says foiled plot to assassinate Ben-Gvir with drone
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‘Israeli’ authorities on Wednesday announced the indictment of two Palestinians from the Nablus area in the northern West Bank for allegedly planning a series of attacks, including the assassination of National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir using an explosive drone.
The Shin Bet security agency and the police’s “Counterterrorism Unit” said in a joint statement that the suspects had advanced “military” activity since late 2023.
According to the indictment, they acquired an extensive arsenal that included M-16 and M-4 rifles, Kalashnikovs, handguns, a hunting rifle and large quantities of ammunition.
They also allegedly recruited additional operatives, conducted shooting training and discussed various attack plans targeting ‘Israeli’ security forces.
Investigators revealed that in 2024 the pair began considering an attack on Ben-Gvir after watching a video of the minister arriving at the scene of a prior attack.
One suspect proposed a “drive-by” or ambush-style attack, waiting for Ben-Gvir to appear at a similar scene and then assassinating him.
He later suggested using an explosive drone for the assassination and attempted to obtain assistance in purchasing drone parts from China.
The suspects also allegedly advanced plans for deadly attacks employing explosive vehicles and drones against troops, as well as shooting attacks and the abduction of ‘Israeli’ soldiers.
The two men remain in custody pending the conclusion of legal proceedings.
Ben-Gvir responded on social media, calling it the 11th such attempt against him.
“This is already the 11th time they are trying to assassinate me, and the Holy One, blessed be He, saves me from their hands!” he wrote.
“I have a message for all those enemies – this will not deter me and will not frighten me. I will continue to lead a harsh policy in the prisons, I will continue to lead the policy of demolishing illegal construction in the Negev, and I will continue to ensure the death penalty law we passed is implemented.”
In a further statement, the minister added: “This won’t deter me or scare me. They fear and tremble at the thought that I will be the Defense Minister, because they know full well: With me, there are no compromises and no leniencies. What I say – I do.”
The case is the latest in a series of foiled plots targeting the far-right Otzma Yehudit leader, who has faced multiple assassination attempts in recent years.
