National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir said Thursday that the indictment filed against a terrorist who planned to assassinate him only reinforces his determination to pursue a hardline security policy. Ben Gvir stated this was the ninth time terror groups have attempted to kill him. He thanked the Shin Bet, Israel Police, and other security agencies for foiling the plot.
National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir on Thursday, July 23, responded to the indictment filed against a suspect in an assassination plot, calling it the ninth attempt on his life by terror groups. 'This only strengthens my resolve,' he said, thanking the Shin Bet, Israel Police, and other security agencies for foiling the plot.
The indictment was filed on Tuesday, July 21, at 13:42 Jerusalem, against Muhammad Awad, a 29-year-old Nazareth resident, for allegedly planning to assassinate Ben Gvir using an explosive-laden drone. Initial reports from i24NEWS identified the suspect as an unarmed security guard at Afula bus station. Later details from N12 and the indictment revealed that Awad sought to join Hamas after the October 7, 2023 attacks, consuming incitement content and contacting the organization via email. A search of his home uncovered a weapon sight, ammunition, maps of strategic sites, and an entry permit to an Iron Dome battery. The indictment states that the plot was motivated by the murder of Awad's friend in June 2025.
Ben Gvir has faced multiple assassination attempts in the past. As The Zioneer reported on Tuesday, July 21, the minister has previously vowed not to be deterred by such threats, continuing his hardline security policies. The investigation was conducted by the Shin Bet and Israel Police, with the Northern District Prosecutor's Office filing the indictment. The suspect remains in custody.
The specific timeline of the planned attack and the extent of any external support remain unclear.
8 developments
- StrongBen Gvir: 'I will not be deterred' after Nazareth man arrested for plotting attack on minister
- DevelopingIndictment filed against Bedouin suspect for smuggling weapons from Egypt via drone
- StrongIndictment reveals Negev suspect sought to establish terror group after 2021 Gaza war, recruited bomb-maker
- DevelopingBen Gvir demands harsh response to drone incursions in security cabinet meeting
Source and signal
- Internal intake