Buenos Aires: Argentina’s Federal Police have successfully dismantled what they described as a terrorist cell plotting attacks against the Jewish community in Mendoza. The National Security Ministry labeled the group as an “Islamist terrorist organization” in a statement released on Friday.
Why It Matters
Argentina is home to Latin America’s largest Jewish population. The country has faced devastating attacks on its Jewish community in the past: the 1994 bombing of a Jewish community center in Buenos Aires killed 85 people, marking the deadliest terrorist incident in Argentina’s history. Another attack in 1992 on the Israeli embassy resulted in 22 deaths.
Libertarian President Javier Milei, a strong supporter of both the Jewish community and Israel, has pledged to enhance the national intelligence system to thwart future attacks.
Key Quote
“We are going to get rid of each and every one of these criminals who intend to sow fear in Argentines, and they will pay,” said Security Minister Patricia Bullrich in a social media post.
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Context
This operation follows the January arrests of three individuals with Syrian and Lebanese citizenship, who were suspected of plotting a terrorist attack, according to authorities.
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By the Numbers
Seven members of the alleged terrorist cell were arrested, as reported by the security ministry. Eight raids on the members’ residences led to the seizure of firearms, knives, and electronic devices.
