East Jerusalem Teen Planned Bombing at Lion’s Gate and Shooting Attack on Har Habayis
Israeli security forces have thwarted an alleged major terrorist attack in Yerushalayim involving an explosive device at Lion’s Gate followed by a shooting rampage on Har Habayis, according to details of a joint Shin Bet and police investigation disclosed Wednesday.
A 19-year-old resident of East Jerusalem was arrested on suspicion of preparing the attack over a period of approximately two years. Investigators say the suspect intended to target Jewish civilians and police officers, inflict as many casualties as possible, and escape following the assault.
The investigation, conducted jointly by the Shin Bet and Israel Police, uncovered what authorities described as extensive preparations for the planned attack. A serious indictment was filed against the suspect in recent days, according to a report by i24NEWS.
Under the alleged plan, the attacker would first detonate an explosive device near Lion’s Gate, one of the principal entrances to the Old City. He then intended to proceed onto Har Habayis and open fire on Jewish visitors and security personnel.
Investigators believe the suspect spent considerable time studying the locations where he intended to carry out the attack, making repeated visits to the Old City to gather information about security arrangements.
According to the investigation, he regularly traveled to the area on Fridays, using those visits to examine the placement of surveillance cameras and observe the deployment of police officers and other security forces.
The suspect also allegedly attempted to obtain a firearm through the dark web as part of his preparations.
The investigation also revealed that the suspect had begun taking martial arts lessons in recent months, allegedly preparing himself to attack people physically if he was unable to obtain a weapon or carry out the bombing and shooting operation as planned.
During questioning, the 19-year-old reportedly admitted that he had intended to carry out the attack. He told investigators that his decision to pursue the terrorist plot came after watching footage of the October 7, 2023, Hamas massacre in southern Israel.
Authorities also obtained testimony from individuals acquainted with the suspect, which investigators said supported the allegations against him.
Following the completion of the joint Shin Bet and police investigation, prosecutors filed a serious indictment against the suspect in recent days.
The suspect’s identity and the specific charges contained in the indictment were not disclosed in the initial report. No indication was provided that he had succeeded in obtaining a firearm or assembling an explosive device before his arrest.
