Criminal10/8/2026

Shin Bet Reports Arrests on Suspicion of Preparing Attacks in the Negev

The Shin Bet reported that since the beginning of 2026, 72 people have been detained for questioning in the Negev and southern Israel on suspicion of involvement in activity that threatens state security. Among the cases disclosed were an alleged attempt to form an armed cell in Shaqib al-Salam and a plan to attack the Forum club in Beersheba.

Key facts

•Since the beginning of 2026, 72 residents of the Negev and southern Israel have been arrested
•67 of those arrested hold Israeli identity cards
•In May–June 2026, five residents of Shaqib al-Salam were arrested
•In July 2026, Abdullah Jarjawi was arrested
•No information was provided about charges or judicial decisions
•The source does not specify the relevant statutory provisions

Alleged Armed Cell

According to the Shin Bet, five young Israeli citizens from Shaqib al-Salam were arrested in May and June 2026. They allegedly intended to establish a paramilitary “battalion” in the town, modeled on armed organizations in Judea and Samaria, and carry out attacks. The group’s leader is also suspected of inciting against Israel on social media.

What Attacks Were Discussed, According to the Investigation’s Account

According to the Shin Bet’s claim, one of the suspects agreed to participate in a shooting attack on the police station in Shaqib al-Salam, as well as a stabbing and shooting attack at the central bus station in Beersheba. Another suspect was allegedly supposed to manufacture explosive devices targeting Israeli security forces. According to the suspicion, another suspect also planned to independently carry out an attack using an explosive device after his release from detention and had intended for about two years to carry out a stabbing attack in the name of the “Islamic State.”

Suspicion of Preparing an Attack at the Forum Club

In July 2026, the Shin Bet arrested Abdullah Jarjawi, a resident of Shaqib al-Salam and an Israeli citizen. According to the agency, he incited terrorism, planned an attack at the Forum club in Beersheba, was in contact with members of the “Islamic State,” and wanted to travel to the organization’s combat zones abroad. He is also accused of identifying with the “Islamic State” and Hamas.

Legal Status and Public Reaction

The source reports suspicions, arrests, and investigations, but provides no information about indictments, judicial decisions, or release conditions that were set. It also does not specify the statutory provisions under which the investigation was conducted. Dimona Mayor Benny Biton called on the Shin Bet to brief the heads of local authorities in the Negev on the available information and stressed that the entire Bedouin community should not be viewed with suspicion.

What this means for you

The report describes the investigative stage: arrest and suspicion do not in themselves indicate guilt. For residents of Israel, this also means increased attention by the security services to alleged armed cells, online incitement, and links with terrorist organizations. The final legal consequences will depend on whether indictments are filed and on the court’s decisions.

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