JERUSALEM (VINnews) — Israeli security authorities have arrested a 29-year-old man from Nazareth on suspicion of seeking to join Hamas and plotting to assassinate National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir, officials said Tuesday.

According to a joint statement, investigators allege Awad contacted Hamas in an effort to join the militant group and obtain resources to carry out terrorist activity.

Authorities said the investigation uncovered an alleged plan to target Ben Gvir. Officials also said Awad was employed as an unarmed security guard at the Afula Central Bus Station at the time of his arrest.

Prosecutors on Tuesday filed a prosecutor’s declaration with the Nazareth District Court, a procedural step in Israel indicating an indictment is expected to be filed in the coming days.

The Shin Bet and Israel Police said they view “with utmost severity” the involvement of Israeli citizens in activities that threaten the country’s security and pledged to continue using all legal means to investigate and prosecute such cases.

Ben Gvir welcomed the arrest, saying it marked the ninth time terrorist organizations had allegedly attempted to target him.

“I thank the Shin Bet, Israel Police, the Israel Prison Service intelligence unit, the Magen Unit, and the Almighty for thwarting attempts to harm me and my family,” Ben Gvir said in a statement.

The far-right minister said he would continue promoting his policies, including prison reforms, the demolition of illegal structures, legislation allowing the death penalty for terrorists, expanding civilian security squads, increasing civilian firearm ownership, and asserting Israeli sovereignty on the Temple Mount.

“We will not be intimidated, and I will not be deterred,” Ben Gvir said. “I will continue to act 24/7 for the sake of the people of Israel.”

Hamas has not publicly commented on the allegations. The charges against Awad have not yet been tested in court, and he is presumed innocent unless convicted.