The Israeli General Security Service, known as Shin Bet, and the Israeli Police announced on Wednesday, September 23, 2026, that they had foiled a plot to target National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir. According to the authorities, two Palestinians from Nablus in the West Bank, had planned to carry out a series of attacks, including an attempt to assassinate the minister using an explosive drone.
The investigation revealed that the suspects had been working on developing armed activity, gathering weapons, and recruiting and training other individuals to carry out attacks against Israelis and Israeli security forces since late 2023. The idea of targeting Ben Gvir began in 2024, after the suspects watched a video showing the minister's arrival at the scene of an attack.
The suspects allegedly planned to use a drone loaded with explosives to carry out the assassination plot, with one of them attempting to obtain help in purchasing drone parts from China to develop the plan. The authorities also accused the suspects of planning to carry out shooting attacks and using cars and explosive drones against Israeli targets and security forces.
The investigation led to the confiscation of weapons and ammunition, including M16 and M4 rifles, Kalashnikov rifles, pistols, and a hunting rifle. The suspects were also accused of working to recruit additional individuals and train them. The suspects were arrested before charges were filed, and the military court extended their detention several times during the investigation.
The Shin Bet and Israeli Police stated that the suspects were charged with attempting to assassinate Ben Gvir, as well as planning to carry out other attacks against Israeli targets. The National Security Minister said that this was the eleventh attempt on his life, but it would not deter him from his policies.
This incident comes after the Shin Bet announced in September 2025 that it had foiled another plot to target Ben Gvir using explosive drones, allegedly planned by a cell affiliated with the Hamas movement in the West Bank. The minister's security has been a priority for Israeli authorities, given his high-profile position and previous threats against him.
The Israeli authorities have not disclosed whether the suspects had received support from any external organizations or countries. The incident highlights the ongoing security concerns in the region and the continued efforts of Israeli authorities to prevent attacks against their citizens and leaders.
Key points
- Israeli authorities foiled a plot to assassinate National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir using an explosive drone.
- Two Palestinians from Nablus were arrested and charged in connection with the plot.
- The incident highlights the ongoing security concerns in the region and the efforts of Israeli authorities to prevent attacks.
