New details from the investigation into a terror cell that plotted to assassinate National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir reveal the cell leader proposed a 'distraction attack' to lure the minister to a scene, then strike him with an explosive drone assembled from Chinese components, Israeli media reported Wednesday.
New details from the investigation into the terror cell that plotted to assassinate National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir were published Wednesday afternoon by Israeli journalist Li Aish. According to the report, the cell leader identified that Ben Gvir frequently arrives at attack scenes and proposed a 'distraction attack' to draw the minister to a fabricated scene, then strike him with an explosive drone assembled from components purchased from China. The leader devised the method after concluding that the minister's security detail would make a direct attempt difficult; a partner expressed concern but the leader insisted on assembling the drone from Chinese parts.
The revelations follow the filing of indictments against two Palestinians from Nablus earlier Wednesday. At 14:02 Jerusalem, the Shin Bet and Israel Police submitted charges accusing the suspects of establishing a terror cell that planned the Ben Gvir assassination using a distraction attack and explosive drone, as well as shooting attacks, car bombs, and the abduction of soldiers. The indictment noted one suspect attempted to procure drone components from China. Minutes later, Israeli media outlet i24NEWS reported additional planning details, including the leader's proposal and the partner's refusal. The Zioneer covered the indictment filing at 14:02 and the subsequent reports.
The plot represents an escalation in terrorist planning sophistication. As The Zioneer reported on September 8, security forces earlier neutralized a major Judea and Samaria terror cell whose leader allegedly intended to assassinate Ben Gvir. Wednesday's indictment stems from that same investigation and now outlines a concrete method using an improvised explosive drone.
The Shin Bet has not commented on the latest report from journalist Li Aish. The cell leader and his accomplice remain in custody. The investigation is ongoing.
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