Former IDF Soldier Charged with Training to Join ISIS

A former IDF soldier has been charged with training for terrorist purposes after allegedly preparing to join ISIS and fight in Syria or Africa. Khamis Sawaed, a 30 year old Arab Israeli resident of the Bedouin village of Hussniyya, was arrested on August 2 following a joint investigation by the Shin Bet and Israel Police. According to the indictment filed in Haifa Magistrate's Court, Sawaed served in the IDF from 2017 to 2019 and developed an interest in ISIS in 2023. Prosecutors allege that Sawaed prepared for his journey by saving money and consuming ISIS content, including religious lessons, combat methods, and videos of killings and beheadings. He is also accused of downloading manuals on the production of missiles and drones and the use of sniper rifles. Prosecutors stated that Sawaed admitted to the conduct during questioning and that evidence was found on his phones. While the charge focuses on his preparations to fight abroad, it does not identify a planned attack inside Israel. The prosecution has requested that Sawaed remain in custody until the conclusion of the proceedings, citing risks to public and state security.