Israel says it uncovered Hamas-linked network in the West Bank
Israeli security services said they had uncovered a large network linked to Hamas which, according to their information, recruited armed cells in the West Bank to attack Israeli civilians and security personnel. In a joint operation, Israel's General Security Service SHABAK, police and the Israel Defense Forces detained more than 30 suspects from Jerusalem and the West Bank.
As The Jerusalem Post reports, the investigation into some of those detained is still ongoing. Among those involved in the case are Jerusalem residents Tsabih Abu-Tsabih and Rashid Rishk, whom Israeli authorities described as members of Shabab al-Aqsa, an organization linked to Hamas.
Recruitment of armed cells
According to SHABAK and the Central Unit of the Jerusalem District Police, Rishk and Tsabih Abu-Tsabih allegedly created a broader network and recruited armed groups that were to operate under their leadership in different areas of the West Bank. Security forces said they seized weapons during the investigation which, according to their account, were intended for attacks, as well as other military equipment.
More current news is available on the UA.News Telegram channel Telegram.
Three other Jerusalem residents were also detained: Mohammed Abu-Tsabih, Mohammed Azmi Bakri and Ahmad Azmi Bakri. According to the investigation, Ahmad Azmi Bakri and Rishk planned an attack at a restaurant in the city of Modi'in, where Bakri worked. Investigators also claim that Mohammed Bakri explained to Rishk and Mohammed Abu-Tsabih how to make explosive devices after they said they intended to engage in terrorist activity.
Charges against five suspects
Israeli security agencies said that Rishk and Tsabih Abu-Tsabih also allegedly planned to shoot at security personnel in Eizariya, east of Jerusalem. After the investigation into the five Jerusalem residents was completed, they were charged, including with leading and participating in a terrorist organization, conspiracy and preparation of a terrorist act involving intentional murder under aggravating circumstances, weapons offenses, recruitment and attempted recruitment into a terrorist organization.
Israeli authorities said they expect charges to be filed in the coming days against West Bank residents suspected of involvement in the network.
