New Details: Hamas Just Tried to Assassinate Ben-Gvir
Foiled scheme shows how social media surveillance and Turkish-based funding nearly enabled an unprecedented drone assassination of an Israeli Minister.
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Israeli security forces have revealed chilling details of a Hamas-linked cell that plotted to assassinate National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir using explosive-laden drones during the Jewish holiday season. The Shin Bet and Israel Police announced the arrests earlier this week, describing the foiled attack as one of the most serious attempts against a senior Israeli official in recent years.
From Istanbul to Hebron
According to interrogations conducted by the Judea and Samaria police unit (Yamar Shai), one of the suspects moved to Turkey three years ago, where he established ties with Hamas operatives. Inspired by the war in Gaza, he conceived the idea of targeting Ben Gvir with drones carrying explosives. Hamas’ Turkish network allegedly provided the group with around $2,000, which was used to purchase two DJI drones and other materials later stored in an apartment in Hebron.
The suspects admitted they followed Ben Gvir’s movements on social media and learned he was expected to visit the Tomb of the Patriarchs in Hebron during the holiday period. Their plan was to fly the drones over the site while the minister was praying. They even conducted a live test, dropping an explosive device that reportedly detonated successfully.
When another trial run ended in an accidental explosion during the assembly process, the cell considered changing tactics. One member suggested selling the drones to buy firearms for shooting attacks at multiple locations, though the idea was ultimately abandoned. The suspects expressed concerns that surveillance cameras might expose them before they could act.
The plot once again highlights Hamas’ infrastructure in Turkey, particularly in Istanbul, where senior operatives expelled in the 2011 Gilad Shalit prisoner deal are based. While Turkish authorities officially limit Hamas’ ability to run political or military headquarters on their soil, the country has granted citizenship to some senior operatives and continues to serve as a safe hub for transit and coordination.
The Shin Bet emphasized that while Hezbollah and Iran-backed threats dominate headlines, Hamas’ overseas command, particularly in Turkey, remains a persistent driver of terror plots against Israeli targets.