Israel: Muslim Doctor Allegedly Swears Allegiance to ISIS, Attempts to Acquire Firearm and Researches Toxic Substances

Soroka Medical Center in Be’er Sheva, ד”ר אבישי טייכר, Creative Commons Attribution 2.5 | Jihad Watch

A serious security case has emerged in Israel, where a medical professional has been formally charged over alleged links to extremist activity. Muhammad Azaam, a doctor employed at Soroka Medical Center, appeared before the Beersheba Magistrate’s Court following charges filed by the Israel Justice Ministry. Authorities allege that his involvement with extremist ideology developed over several years, raising concerns about radicalization within professional environments.

According to court proceedings, Azaam’s exposure to propaganda linked to Islamic State began as early as 2014, eventually intensifying after the October 7 attacks. Prosecutors claim that by 2024, he had taken further steps by researching methods to produce explosives and toxic substances. While no direct communication with ISIS operatives was established, the court concluded that his actions aligned with evolving recruitment strategies used by the organization.

The ruling highlighted a shift in ISIS tactics, often described as an “inspiration model,” where individuals are encouraged to carry out attacks independently, without formal training or direct orders. Evidence presented during the trial suggested that this decentralized approach played a key role in shaping Azaam’s actions, leading the court to recognize him as a member of the group under current legal interpretations.

In a related case, Mohammad Abd al-Ghani, a resident of Nahf in the Galilee, was also accused of pledging allegiance to ISIS. Authorities stated that he attempted to acquire a firearm and planned to carry out an attack targeting soldiers of the Israel Defense Forces in the city of Karmiel, underscoring broader concerns about lone-actor threats influenced by extremist networks.

(This Article was originally published by Jihad Watch)