In a combined operation by the Shin Bet (Israel Security Agency), the Israel Defense Forces, and Israel Police, security forces in recent weeks thwarted shooting attacks planned against Israeli civilians and security personnel.
In the joint operation, the security forces uncovered a Hamas cell and central Hamas terror infrastructure in the Bethlehem area. The cell had been planning imminent shooting attacks against civilians and security personnel.
During the investigation led by the Shin Bet, approximately 40 Hamas operatives were arrested in over 15 targeted actions carried out by the IDF’s Etzion Brigade reserves, the Duvdevan unit, and other counter‑terrorism teams.
Parallel to this, weapons including loaded M16 rifles, used by the terror cells in preparing the attacks, were also seized.
According to the investigation findings, senior members of the network recruited new operatives, formed terror cells, and procured weapons to execute major shooting attacks against civilians and soldiers. One of the cells apprehended was at an advanced stage of preparation for immediate terror attacks.
Security officials assess that the dismantling of this infrastructure prevented largescale shooting and suicide‐bomb type attacks.
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