A joint operation by the Shin Bet, Israel Police, and IDF led to the exposure and thwarting of an extensive terrorist infrastructure that was working to carry out attacks against civilians and security forces.
As part of the operation, more than 30 terrorists from the Jerusalem area and Judea and Samaria were arrested. The investigation of some of those involved is still ongoing.
Among those arrested were two Jerusalem residents who are members of the Hamas-affiliated Shabab al-Aqsa organization: Tzabih Abu Tzabih, the son of Misbah Abu Tzabih, who carried out a terrorist attack in October 2016 in which two civilians were murdered; and Rashid Rishq, who was released in January 2025 as part of a hostage-release deal.
Three additional Jerusalem residents who were part of the infrastructure were arrested alongside them: Mohammed Abu Tzabih, Mohammed Azmi Bakri and Ahmad Azmi Bakri.
The investigation by the Shin Bet and the Jerusalem District Central Unit found that Rishq and Tzabih Abu Tzabih established the infrastructure and recruited terrorist cells throughout Judea and Samaria under their command. Weapons and military equipment intended for use in the attacks were seized during the operation.
The investigations revealed that Ahmad Azmi Bakri and Rashid Rishq had planned to advance an attack at a restaurant in Modi’in where Ahmad worked.
In addition, Mohammed Bakri instructed Rishq and Mohammed Abu Tzabih on how to prepare explosive devices after they told him of their intention to carry out terrorist activity. Rashid and Tzabih also planned to carry out a shooting attack against security forces.
The Jerusalem District Attorney’s Office filed a serious indictment against the five detainees. The charges include managing a terrorist organization, active membership in a terrorist organization, conspiracy and preparation to commit an act of terrorism involving murder under aggravated circumstances, weapons and property offenses for terrorist purposes, and recruiting and attempting to recruit members to a terrorist organization.
The State Attorney’s Office requested that all five remain in custody until the conclusion of the proceedings against them. In the coming days, the Judea and Samaria District Prosecutor’s Office is expected to file additional indictments in the Judea Military Court against those involved from Judea and Samaria.