Israel Releases Jordanian Parliament Member Who Smuggled 200 Weapons Into Israel

JERUSALEM (VINnews) — Israel released Sunday the Jordanian member of parliament Imad al-Adwan, who was suspected of smuggling weapons into the country via the Allenby crossing. Al-Adwan was found with a huge cache of weapons as well as bars of gold after he attempted to use his diplomatic immunity to cross without being checked by customs. The weapons included many types of pistols and M-16 rifles.

Minister of National Security Itamar Ben-Gvir attacked the release, stating that: “the decision to release the terrorist who tried to bring here hundreds of weapons that would be used for terrorist attacks and criminal activity in the heart of the State of Israel is a strategic and moral mistake.”

“This issue should also have been brought to the cabinet and this right-wing government is expected to stop the policy of no deterrence for Gaza, the Jordanians, the Lebanese, and any terrorist who seeks to harm the residents of Israel.”

Ben-Gvir added that “This diplomat should have been imprisoned for many years and not be released.”

Al-Adwan was arrested two weeks ago on suspicion of trying to smuggle gold and weapons into Israel. In a search of his vehicle, Israeli authorities reportedly discovered three bags containing 12 assault rifles, 270 medium and small weapons, and 100 kilos (220 pounds) of gold, worth some $6.6 million.

During the investigation, it was revealed that since 2022, Al-Adwan has successfully smuggled 12 different contrabands into Israeli territory with the help of his diplomatic passport. In recent months, he was mainly involved in smuggling weapons. According to the Shin Bet, the actual motive was his desire to make money.

Reportedly, the inspection was not initially scheduled to be carried out. However, Israeli border guards received a tip which led them to conduct the inspection and ultimately to seize the contraband.

At the same time as his investigation in Israel, Jordanian security forces arrested a number of officials in Jordan connected to the smuggling attempt.

On Friday, the member of parliament was visited by the Jordanian ambassador to Israel, who confirmed his good health. As part of diplomatic agreements between the two countries, heavy pressure was applied to release the detainee, with Israel standing by its demand to receive a commitment that he would serve a heavy sentence in Jordan.