Shin Bet’s 2024 Report Highlights Key Security Operations and Achievements

In its annual report for 2024, Israel’s Shin Bet security agency detailed a series of significant counterterrorism operations and intelligence successes, underlining its efforts to combat terrorism both within Israel and abroad. Over the past year, Shin Bet has worked tirelessly to thwart terror attacks, disrupt espionage activities, and protect Israeli citizens amid growing threats.

The agency reported the interrogation of over 650 suspects from the Gaza Strip, the foiling of 1,040 major terror attacks in the West Bank and Jerusalem, and the dismantling of 20 terror cells among Arab Israeli citizens. It also prevented a record 13 Iranian espionage plots aimed at infiltrating Israeli intelligence.

Since the October 7, 2023 attack by Hamas, Shin Bet has been involved in high-level operations targeting Hamas leaders and thwarting terror groups. Notably, the agency contributed to the deaths of *over 30 senior Hamas officials, including Yahya Sinwar, Muhammad Deif, and other key figures in Gaza and Lebanon.

Additionally, Shin Bet played a crucial role in hostage rescue missions, recovering eight hostages alive and returning 38 bodies of those abducted during the onslaught. A poignant moment was the rescue of Cpl. Ori Megidish, with a never-before-heard radio message highlighting the agency’s dedication to bringing captives home.

Cybersecurity and Counter-Espionage

Shin Bet also took significant steps to counter cyberattacks and espionage threats. The agency helped prevent 700 cyberattacks on Israel, contributing to Israel's national cybersecurity efforts alongside the National Cyber Directorate and IDF. Moreover, the agency reported a 400% increase in espionage-related arrests in 2024, with 13 espionage incidents foiled, many involving Iranian operatives.

Shin Bet also revealed that it uncovered Iranian smuggling operations and thwarted numerous cyber and espionage activities orchestrated by Iran, which has long supported terrorist groups such as Hamas.

West Bank and Jerusalem Operations

The agency reported a 40% decrease in terror attacks in the West Bank and Jerusalem compared to the previous year, with key operations preventing shootings, bombings, and other attacks. Working closely with the IDF and Israeli Police, Shin Bet contributed to the detention of around 1,350 Palestinians, including several commanders and key figures connected to the October 7 attacks.

Shin Bet also engaged in preventing internal threats, including the discovery of 20 terror cells made up of Arab citizens of Israel. Some of these cells were planning explosive attacks. To counter this, the agency deployed its elite Tequila team, a specialized counterterrorism unit made up of Shin Bet and police forces.