Cleared for Release: Shin Bet officials on Thursday 18 Tishrei removed a gag order, permitting publication of a conspiracy to perpetrate a major terror attack in southern Israel.

According to the information released, the terror cell planned to target a simcha hall but B’chasdei Hashem, they were apprehended before they could carry it out as they were arrested by police on September 21, 2016. Hassin Abu-Taheh, a resident of Khan Yunis (Gaza) was arrested as he tried passing through the Erez Crossing.

Officials report the cell members are aligned with the Islamic Jihad in Gaza and they planned a large attack in a simcha hall that included abducting and murdering an IDF soldier. Others Gazans were also enlisted by the cell including at least one Gazan who was inside Green Line Israel illegally. Indictments were handed down in the Beersheva District Court on Thursday, 18 Tishrei.

(YWN – Israel Desk, Jerusalem)