The Shin Bet and Israel Police arrested a 19-year-old firefighter from Kafr Qassem accused of planning a series of terrorist attacks after becoming radicalized by the October 7 massacre.

Mustafa Issa, who served as a firefighter at a station in central Israel as part of his national service, was arrested in recent weeks during a joint operation by the Shin Bet and the Sharon District Police’s Central Unit.

Investigators said Issa searched for combat manuals on his cellphone and downloaded files containing instructions for manufacturing explosive devices.

Authorities said he moved beyond research and conducted experiments using various materials in an effort to assemble explosive devices. He also reportedly shared details of his activities with others.

Security forces seized airsoft weapons and a large amount of training equipment during his arrest.

The investigation found that Issa developed an interest in terrorism at age 16 and became significantly more radicalized following the outbreak of the Gaza war. His views were reportedly influenced by the 2021 “Guardian of the Walls” conflict and Hamas’ October 7 massacre.

Investigators also suspect that Issa attempted to establish a terrorist cell and recruit two acquaintances from Kafr Qassem. The two were arrested and detained for approximately two weeks, but authorities have not yet gathered sufficient evidence to file charges against them.

Following the joint investigation, prosecutors filed a declaration with the Central District Court signaling that an indictment against Issa is expected.

(YWN World Headquarters – NYC)