Israel claims to thwart Hamas kidnapping plot

JERUSALEM (AA) - The Israeli authorities have arrested three Palestinians in the occupied West Bank who had allegedly planned to kidnap Israeli settlers and soldiers during the eight-day Jewish Hanukkah holiday that began Tuesday, according to Israeli media reports.

Israel’s Channel 7 reported Wednesday that the Shabak domestic security agency -- in coordination with police -- had foiled the plan, which was allegedly hatched by Gaza-based resistance group Hamas.

“The kidnapping was planned by Hamas and was scheduled to take place during the Hanukkah holiday,” the broadcaster reported.

“Mouad Ashtiya, 26, has been identified as the cell leader,” it added. “Ashtiya planned the attack, acquired weapons and enlisted Mohamad Ramadan and Ahmad Ramadan, both 19, to join the cell.”

Channel 7 went on to assert that cell members had planned to carry out the kidnappings at a particular bus stop located at a major road junction in the occupied West Bank.

Hamas, for its part, has yet to issue a statement regarding the Israeli allegations.

In recent days, tension has mounted across the occupied Palestinian territories following U.S. President Donald Trump’s decision last week to recognize Jerusalem as Israel’s capital.