Israeli security forces have arrested an illegal resident from the West Bank on suspicion of preparing explosives and planning additional terror activities targeting Israeli Defence Forces (IDF) soldiers, Israel Police said on Tuesday night.
According to an official statement, the suspect was taken into custody earlier this week and has been transferred for questioning by the Shin Bet. Police said the investigation is ongoing and further details will be released as permitted.
Arrest followed intelligence-led operation
Earlier on Tuesday, Israeli broadcaster N12 News reported that Israel Police and the Shin Bet arrested a wanted individual who had infiltrated Israel and was hiding on the roof of a building in Kafr Kassem.
According to the report, the suspect was believed to be planning a terror attack in central Israel. Security officials said the operation was carried out following precise intelligence inputs.
Suspect had expertise in explosives
Sources quoted by N12 said the arrested individual had “extensive knowledge” in the preparation of explosives and various weapons. He was also allegedly involved in previous attacks against Israel Defense Forces soldiers operating in the West Bank.
A senior security source said the arrest may have prevented a major incident. “We may have foiled a particularly serious attack planned by a highly wanted individual responsible for several terrorist acts against soldiers,” the source was quoted as saying.
Intelligence value highlighted
Officials added that the suspect is believed to possess critical intelligence that could assist security agencies in preventing future attacks. Interrogators are focusing on identifying possible accomplices, weapon supply routes, and planned targets.
The arrest comes amid heightened security measures across Israel and the West Bank, with authorities continuing to monitor infiltration attempts and potential terror threats.