Shin Bet, Israel Police Arrest Kafr Qasim Teen in Alleged Oct. 7-Inspired Bomb Plot

Israeli security authorities said Tuesday that a 19-year-old resident of Kafr Qasim, in central Israel, was arrested on suspicion of advancing terrorist activity and planning an attack linked to the October 7, 2023, Hamas-led massacre.

The Shin Bet (Israel Security Agency) and Israel Police said the joint investigation found the suspect, identified in the investigation as Issa, had been influenced by the October 7 attack and then began developing a plan to carry out a terrorist attack involving explosives.

When he was taken into custody, investigators said they found a large quantity of training equipment and airsoft weapons in his possession. During questioning, authorities said, he used his cellphone to search for combat manuals and downloaded and saved guides on manufacturing explosive devices.

According to the investigation, his activity went beyond online research. The Shin Bet and police allege he attempted to build explosive devices using various materials and brought other people into those efforts.

The case comes amid heightened concern in Israel over attack plots inspired by the October 7 massacre, in which Hamas-led terrorists killed about 1,200 people and took 251 hostages, triggering the war in Gaza. The arrest also underscores broader worries among Israeli security officials about online radicalization and the ease with which instructional material can be accessed.

Kafr Qasim is a city in central Israel. Authorities did not release additional details about the suspect’s alleged targets or network.

After interrogations by the Shin Bet and the Sharon Central Unit, prosecutors submitted a declaration to the Central District Court ahead of filing an indictment, according to the statement.

The aftermath of Hamas's terror attack on Kibbutz Holit during the October 7 massacre, pictured October 26, 2023. Credit: Erik Marmor/Flash90