An indictment was filed Thursday against Muhammad Awad, a 29-year-old Nazareth resident, for allegedly plotting to assassinate National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir using an explosive-laden drone. According to the indictment, Awad sought to join Hamas and planned the attack after his friend's murder in June 2025.
An indictment was filed Thursday against Muhammad Awad, a 29-year-old Nazareth resident, for allegedly plotting to assassinate National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir using an explosive-laden drone, according to i24NEWS and N12. The indictment details that Awad attempted to join Hamas, contacting the terror group via email twice to request resources, but received no response. He decided to target Ben Gvir after his friend was murdered in June 2025, blaming the minister for the escalation of crime in Arab society, N12 reported.
The Zioneer reported on July 21 that Awad was arrested by the Shin Bet and police, and that the Northern District Prosecutor's Office announced its intention to file an indictment. Thursday's indictment expands on the plot: a search of Awad's home uncovered a weapon sight, ammunition, maps of strategic sites including airports and security facilities, an entry permit to an Iron Dome battery site, and an IDF file on securing communities. The indictment also states that Awad worked as an unarmed security guard at the Afula central bus station, according to i24NEWS.
The case highlights the ongoing threat of homegrown terrorism and the targeting of Israeli officials. The investigation is ongoing.
7 developments
- StrongBen Gvir: Ninth assassination attempt won't stop prison reform, Temple Mount sovereignty push
- StrongBen Gvir: 'I will not be deterred' after Nazareth man arrested for plotting attack on minister
- DevelopingBen Gvir says he and government colleagues will not be deterred by Supreme Court
- DevelopingBen Gvir backs police who shot suspected car-rammer at checkpoint
Source and signal
- Internal intake