hamas operative — An operative of Hamas residing in Cyprus is believed to be the mastermind behind a significant terror plot aimed at Israel, according to an indictment filed by the Israeli Prosecutor’s Office. This case has led to the arrest of two men, both 21 years old and from East Jerusalem.
Hamas operative: Alleged Attack Plans Targeting IDF Soldiers
The indictment reveals that the two suspects, identified as H.G. and A.R.H., plotted to launch an explosive device at Israeli Defence Forces (IDF) soldiers stationed at the Anatot military base, located just outside Jerusalem in the Judean Desert region. This premeditated attack underscores the severity of their intentions.
Preparation and Intelligence Gathering
Israeli authorities reported that as part of their attack preparations, H.G. and A.R.H. engaged in research by watching instructional videos on bomb-making. Disturbingly, one of the suspects is also alleged to have begun assembling a bomb in anticipation of the attack.
Connections to Cyprus
The indictment draws attention to H.G.’s connection with a relative in Cyprus, who is also implicated as a Hamas operative. This individual reportedly directed H.G. in various intelligence-gathering tasks within Israel. These tasks included photographing strategic locations and relaying sensitive information regarding military checkpoints and hotel operations in Jerusalem.
Threats to Israeli Security
Among the information transmitted was data concerning a group of Israeli Air Force cadets who were scheduled to stay at the hotel where H.G. worked. The indictment states that H.G. provided details such as their dates of stay and specific room numbers, raising alarms about the potential risks posed to these servicemen.
Alarming Willingness to Engage in Violence
In communications with his Cyprus-based relative, H.G. was allegedly asked if he would assist in facilitating a suicide bombing at the hotel. Reports suggest that H.G. expressed a willingness to carry out such an attack himself, although he claimed to require additional preparation time.
Charges and Legal Proceedings
H.G. faces serious charges, including conspiracy to commit a terrorist act with intent to murder under aggravating circumstances, contact with a foreign agent, attempted transmission of information to the enemy, and weapons offences related to terrorist purposes. A.R.H. has been charged with conspiracy to commit a terrorist act with similar intent.
The prosecutor’s office has requested that both suspects remain in custody throughout the judicial proceedings, highlighting the gravity of the situation and the potential threat these individuals pose to public safety.
