IDF Arrests Key Terrorist Ayman Ghanam Following Deadly Attack

On Wednesday night, a joint operation by the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF), Yamam, and the Israel Security Agency (ISA) resulted in the arrest of Ayman Ghanam, a member of a terror cell responsible for the deadly shooting attack in August 2024. Ghanam, who was injured by an ISA-directed strike in the Jordan Valley on Tuesday, had been evacuated to a hospital in Nablus, where he was apprehended by security forces. His arrest follows a string of operations targeting terrorists involved in attacks on Israeli civilians.

The August attack, which resulted in the murder of Yonatan Deutsch and left 32-year-old Anas Jaramana wounded, was attributed to Ghanam’s terror cell. After an unsuccessful attempt to eliminate Ghanam, the IDF shifted focus to capturing him alive for further interrogation and legal proceedings.

Earlier this year, the IDF also reported the death of Abd al-Ra’uf Masri, another key figure involved in the August shooting attack. Masri was killed during an exchange of fire in early October. He had been in possession of M-16 rifles and military equipment when he was eliminated. His death marks a significant blow to the terror group responsible for targeting Israeli civilians.

Terrorist Cells and Ongoing Efforts

Since the August attack, Ghanam had been orchestrating further terror activities as the head of a terror cell plotting future attacks. His arrest is part of Israel’s ongoing efforts to dismantle terror groups operating in the West Bank and to ensure the safety of Israeli citizens.

The IDF has also recently eliminated another key figure, Wael Lahluh, who had led the terror cell responsible for the murder of Yonatan Deutsch. Lahluh was killed in an aerial strike earlier this week. These operations reflect Israel’s determined efforts to neutralize terror cells and prevent further attacks.

The IDF emphasized that the operation to capture Ghanam was carried out with careful planning, ensuring minimal risk to patients and medical staff at the Nablus hospital. This strategic approach highlights the IDF’s commitment to safeguarding civilians and mitigating collateral damage during operations.