Israel arrests nine in operation targeting online terrorism incitement

Nine people were arrested over seven months of operation by a special online terrorism incitement team established by National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir, his office announced on Tuesday morning.  

Since the unit was founded in February, twenty-five other people were arrested, 100 incidents are under investigation, 40 other investigations were filed, and 759 posts were removed from social media.

The team was created in response to a wave of terrorism in 2022, which according to the ministry was fueled by incitement by Palestinian Islamic Jihad, Hamas, Hezbollah, and other terrorist elements. The incitement led to teenagers as young as 13 being inspired to carry out attacks. 

Who contributes to these efforts?

The anti-online incitement team is composed of police officers, Shin Bet officials, the IDF and prosecutors, and claims to be monitoring and reviewing online content.

Ben-Gvir said that the results proved that the team was having an impact.

"For years, senior security officials in Israel have been warning that social media is fertile ground for terrorist organizations to exploit," said Ben-Gvir.

The head of the unit, Assistant Commissioner Shlomit Lands, said "Unfortunately, incitement to terrorism permeates into online space and easily reaches affected parties, including teenagers and children."