Israel's security agency, Shin Bet, recently announced the foiling of a terrorist plot orchestrated by three ISIS members aimed at carrying out attacks in Jerusalem. The thwarted plan involved two individuals intending to use explosives and small arms fire to target a police station and a stadium in east Jerusalem. These individuals had pledged allegiance to ISIS and had received training from a third ISIS terrorist who specialized in organizing attacks within Israel.
The third terrorist, who had received training abroad, encouraged the other two men to undergo similar training before executing the planned attacks. Fortunately, all three suspects were apprehended last month before they could leave the country. Authorities revealed that the individuals, all in their 20s, had begun preparations for the attacks, including acquiring knowledge on creating explosives and carrying out assaults.
According to a joint statement by Shin Bet and Jerusalem police, the suspects meticulously planned multiple attacks targeting key areas in Jerusalem, utilizing various methods such as explosives and firearms. This development comes shortly after Israel intercepted a significant Iranian smuggling operation aimed at delivering weapons to Palestinians in the West Bank.
The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) disclosed that an investigation into known Hezbollah and Iranian operative Munir Makdah led to the discovery of the smuggling scheme. The cache of confiscated weapons included a range of armaments such as anti-tank mines, explosives, grenade launchers, rifles, and pistols.
Israeli authorities remain vigilant for potential terror threats and possible retaliation from Iran following the recent strike on its consulate in Syria, which is believed to have resulted in the deaths of seven Iranian military commanders. Israel has not officially claimed responsibility for the strike.