Lod:Israeli prosecutors have charged a mathematics professor from Bar-Ilan University with preparing a terrorist attack, blackmail, and obstruction of justice. The professor is accused of plotting to kill hundreds of Arab citizens and force thousands more to flee to Jordan, Lebanon, and the Gaza Strip.
According to Anadolu Agency, the State Prosecutor's Office revealed that the suspect, whose identity is under a gag order, devised a detailed plan over nearly three years. He allegedly sought assistance from elements within the Israeli Air Force, artillery, and armored corps. The professor, who is about 60 years old, was arrested on September 17 and has admitted to the charges.
The indictment states that the professor spent 18 months trying to recruit individuals for his plan and sought a political figure to help enlist armed participants. He approached former Likud lawmaker Moshe Feiglin, who was unresponsive. Subsequently, the professor attempted to blackmail Feiglin into joining the plot. Threatening letters were later handed to the police by Feiglin, his deputy Yitzhak Hai Zaga, and Zehut executive director Shai Malka.
The plan, referred to as 'Ayit' or 'eagle,' was intended to expel Palestinians. Following 2021 protests in mixed Arab-Jewish cities, the professor began working on the plan in February 2023. Preparations included obtaining aerial photographs of Tuba-Zangariyye and visiting the area to identify attack routes. A 20-page document was prepared, outlining a coordinated assault by 72 armed attackers on Arab population centers.
The document estimated 600 to 700 casualties and called for attacks to be broadcast on social media to incite mass evacuations. The professor aimed to recruit participants under the guise of a campaign event for the 2026 election, with attacks planned for the following day. Efforts to involve his daughter in recruiting 'hilltop youth' failed.
The Central District Attorney's Office filed the indictment at Lod District Court, seeking the professor's detention until the trial concludes. Bar-Ilan University has suspended him, expressing shock over the charges. Arab Israelis represent about 21% of Israel's population.