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18-Year-Old Indicted for ISIS-Linked Plot Against IDF Soldiers in Jerusalem’s Old City
By Drooid · · How we work
Indictment Details
On Tuesday, an 18-year-old resident of Umm el-Fahm was formally charged with planning a terrorist attack against Israel Defense Forces (IDF) soldiers in Jerusalem’s Old City and with pledging allegiance to the Islamic State (ISIS). The indictment alleges that the suspect prepared to carry out the attack, maintained membership in a terrorist organization, and engaged in activities that threatened national security. Authorities seized digital material from the suspect’s home that they say substantiates the planning of the assault and the ISIS affiliation.
Recent ISIS-Related Arrests
The charge follows a series of ISIS-related investigations conducted over the past months. In late August and early September, police arrested four individuals—including one minor—on suspicion of similar offenses. Most recently, on September 7, a 19-year-old from the northern Israeli village of Shibli was indicted for membership in a terrorist organization after investigators reported that he expressed support for ISIS, viewed related material, and pledged allegiance to the group.
Agencies Conducting the Investigation
The investigation was carried out jointly by Israel Police and the Shin Bet (Israel Security Agency). Both agencies participated in the month-long inquiry that led to the arrest of the Umm el-Fahm suspect and the seizure of evidence from his residence. Their coordinated effort reflects an ongoing focus on disrupting ISIS-inspired activities within Israel.
Legal Process and Implications
The indictment marks the latest step in Israel’s legal response to home-grown extremist threats. Following the charge, the suspect will appear before a military court, where the prosecution will present the seized digital evidence and any additional testimony gathered during the investigation. The series of recent arrests underscores a broader security strategy aimed at curbing the influence of ISIS among Israeli citizens, particularly young individuals who may be susceptible to radicalization.