The Israeli police on Thursday said it has arrested three Palestinians for allegedly plotting the assassination of National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir and his son.
The Shin Bet and police in a joint statement said that the prime suspect, identified as one Ismail Ibrahim Avadi from Hebron, has been charged and accused of surveilling Ben Gvir and his 18-year-old son Shoval Ben Gvir to kill them.
3 suspects indicted
Earlier this week, authorities filed an indictment against Avadi and three others at a West Bank military court.
The indictment alleges that Avadi made contact with “various entities with the goal of establishing a military cell, to obtain weapons and make explosive devices with the aim of harming security forces personnel” in June.
In an effort to gather the required funds and arrange training for the group he established, Avadi reportedly sought assistance from both Hamas and Hezbollah.
Avadi learnt all the routes taken by Gvir and also memorised the cars used by him, as well as the number of guards he has.
Why is Ben Gvir targetted?
This is not the first time an assassination bid against Gvir has been foiled.
Following in the footsteps of his hardline nationalist father, the younger Ben Gvir has gained attention in recent years by boldly targeting politicians and opponents from the other end of the political spectrum through online trolling.