Full Breakdown
Foiled Hamas-Linked Terror Network in the West Bank and Jerusalem
9/9/2026, 4:28:33 AM
Background and Context
Israeli security agencies – the Shin Bet (Israel Security Agency), Israel Police and the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) – announced a joint operation that dismantled a “significant and extensive” terror network operating across the West Bank and Jerusalem. The network, described as affiliated with Hamas through its Shabab al-Aqsa wing, had been recruiting armed cells and acquiring weapons for attacks against Israeli civilians and security personnel.
Key Figures
- Rashid Rishk (also reported as Rashid Rishek or Rashid Rishq) – Jerusalem resident, member of Shabab al-Aqsa; released in January 2025 as part of a hostage-release deal.
- Sabih Abu Sabih (also reported as Tzabih Abu Tzabih) – Jerusalem resident, son of Mesbah Abu Sabih, who carried out a 2016 shooting that killed two Israelis.
- Muhammad Abu Sabih – Jerusalem resident alleged to have handled money and concealed equipment.
- Muhammad Azmi Bakri – Jerusalem resident who allegedly instructed others on building explosive devices.
- Ahmad Azmi Bakri – Jerusalem resident who worked at a restaurant in Modi’in and was allegedly targeted for a planned attack there.
Timeline of Arrests and Indictments
- Tuesday (date not specified) – Joint operation results in the detention of more than 30 Palestinians in Jerusalem and the West Bank.
- Following the investigation – Five Jerusalem residents are formally indicted on charges including managing a terrorist organization, active membership, conspiracy to commit aggravated murder, weapons offenses, and recruitment.
- Coming days – Army prosecutors are expected to file indictments against additional West Bank suspects, while investigations into some detainees remain ongoing.
Data and Statistics
- Arrests: Over 30 individuals detained.
- Indicted Jerusalem residents: Five (Rashid Rishk, Sabih Abu Sabih, Muhammad Abu Sabih, Muhammad Azmi Bakri, Ahmad Azmi Bakri).
- Weapons seized: Firearms, ammunition, and other combat equipment intended for the planned attacks, including an M16 rifle and explosives.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
- Name spellings: The Jerusalem Post and Times of Israel differ on the transliteration of several suspects (e.g., “Tzabih Abu Tzabih” vs. “Sabih Abu Sabih”; “Rashid Rishq” vs. “Rashid Rishk”). Both sources refer to the same individuals but use alternate spellings.
- Scope of indictments: Some outlets state that indictments for West Bank suspects are expected “in the coming days,” while others note that indictments for the five Jerusalem residents have already been filed. The precise timing for the remaining indictments remains unspecified.
What’s Next
Army prosecutors are slated to submit indictments against the remaining West Bank detainees in the coming days, and investigations into several suspects are still ongoing. Security agencies have indicated that they will maintain heightened operations to prevent further terrorist activity in the region.
