Shin Bet Discloses Security Arrests of 72 Negev and Southern Residents This Year

Shin Bet disclosed on October 8 that 72 residents of the Negev and southern Israel had been arrested since the start of 2026 over suspected activity endangering state security. It said 67 were Israeli citizens and about 50 had been indicted. The agency alleged that five citizens from Segev Shalom, arrested in May and June, planned attacks on the local police station and Be’er Sheva’s central bus station. A separate suspect arrested in July allegedly planned an attack on Be’er Sheva’s Forum club and maintained contact with Islamic State members. The disclosure describes allegations and indictments, not convictions.