Shin Bet warns: Arab Israelis joining al-Qaeda
Security agency says Arab Israelis joining rebel forces in Syria operating with al-Qaeda, may be trained against Israel
A disconcerting Shin Bet assessment warns that Arab Israelis are joining rebel forces in Syria and working with al-Qaeda terrorists.
According to the review, submitted to the State Prosecutor's Office and the Supreme Court, there is a possibility that Arab Israelis who are being trained in Syria may use their knowledge against Israel – both by spreading ideologies and by using intel and military capabilities they've learned there.
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Another danger is that Global Jihad terrorists will gather valuable information about Israel from Arab Israelis.
The review was submitted with an appeal by the State regarding the release of Abed al-Kader Altala, a 26-year-old Tayibe resident who was studying pharmacology in Jordan and attempted to join the jihad movement in Syria.
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When he returned to Israel he was arrested and tried for contacting and fraternizing with a foreign agent and unlawfully exiting the country.
In the appeal, submitted by the Justice Ministry's senior attorney Joey Asch, it was claimed that Altala testified to believing in radical Islamic-Salafist ideology.
Security officials maintain that his actions show commitment to Global Jihad and he should therefore remain in custody.
The appeal quoted the Shin Bet's review, which describes how warzones in Afghanistan and Syria are used by terrorist organizations to train members and develop ideology and infrastructure.
It also said that Syria is perceived by al-Qaeda to be a pivotal arena where battles to topple the regime are key to the liberation of Jerusalem and Palestine.
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