Israel uncovers 3rd Palestinian terrorist cell in one month

Israeli security forces have arrested a Palestinian "terrorist cell" of four members who are allegedly targeting Hebron, the Israeli army said on Sunday.

Israel's Defense Forces (IDF) said the four Palestinians, who were arrested in November, apparently were planning an attack against Israelis traveling in the vicinity of Hebron in the West Bank.

The suspects are believed to be Hamas operatives, one of whom with records of security-related offenses against Israel, the IDF said.

The suspects were recently indicted and charged with murder and associating with Hamas, a terrorist group blacklisted by Israel.

The IDF said it's the third terrorist cell discovered this month.

Last week, indictments were filed in a Jerusalem court against six Palestinians for allegedly plotting the abduction and murder of an Israeli settler in order to negotiate the release of Palestinian prisoners.

Three weeks ago, Israeli security forces discovered a terrorism cell of 25 members affiliated with Hamas, who were believed to be planning suicide bomb attacks against Israelis.

The cell included Palestinians from the West Bank and east Jerusalem, and was managed by Hamas figures in the Gaza Strip, according to the Shin Bet Security Agency.

Hamas leaders have recently instructed their followers to revive their attacks against Israelis. Similar orders were given in the mid-1990's and early 2000's during the second intifadah, or armed uprising.

A progressing wave of violence between Israelis and Palestinians since October is apparently behind Hamas's renewed attempts to restore their authority and attack Israelis.

Twenty three Israelis and an American citizen have been killed in lone wolf attacks by Palestinians during the turbulent times since October.

More than 140 Palestinians also died in clashes with Israeli security forces, some while attacking Israelis. Endit