The Shin Bet has foiled a major terror plot in the West Bank after uncovering a plan to use a 100-kilogram explosive device against Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) soldiers. The security service reported that two suspects were arrested during a raid last month, as they were headed to carry out a shooting attack.
The suspects, Ahmad Ali Zacharana and Tariq Abu Aid, were detained by Shin Bet agents on January 11 while en route to execute an attack in the town of Huwara. Upon interrogation, the suspects revealed that they had been given a powerful 100-kilogram bomb by terror commanders in Jenin. This mine was intended for use against IDF troops in the West Bank.
In response, a joint operation involving the IDF, Shin Bet, and Border Police led to additional arrests of terror cell members in the towns of Qabatiya and Jenin. A large cache of weapons, including the 100-kilogram mine, was confiscated during the operation.
The investigation into the foiled plot is ongoing. The announcement of the thwarted attack came shortly after a series of explosions in Tel Aviv suburbs, which officials believe were connected to the West Bank-based terror groups.
The recent operation, called Operation Iron Wall, was launched by the IDF in northern West Bank areas, including Jenin, following a surge in terror activity. The offensive aims to target terror cells and halt their operations. Since the start of the operation, Israeli forces have killed over 70 Palestinian operatives and detained around 300 individuals. While the IDF has acknowledged the unintended deaths of some civilians, including a toddler and a pregnant woman, the operation remains a key part of Israel’s strategy to combat terrorism in the region.