JERUSALEM — In a startling development that has opened a window into the ongoing political tensions in Israel, authorities have apprehended a woman accused of attempting to assassinate Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. According to Israel’s internal security agency, Shin Bet, she planned to use an improvised explosive device.

Although the woman’s identity remains undisclosed, she was detained two weeks back. Subsequent to her arrest, she was released under stringent conditions, such as staying away from government buildings and Netanyahu himself. An indictment is anticipated on Thursday, with charges including conspiracy to commit a crime and engage in terrorism.

This incident is the latest in a series of thwarted attempts against Netanyahu, occurring amidst a backdrop of sharp political agitation. It’s a reminder: what drives someone to such extremes?

The political discourse surrounding Netanyahu has been fiery. Just about a year ago, a video circulated on social media capturing an anti-government protester in Tel Aviv openly advocating for Netanyahu’s assassination. It was unnerving. Filmed on Kaplan Street, a man queried demonstrators about Netanyahu’s fate if he refused to resign. The chilling reply: “We will see to it that they kill him.” Though the protester’s identity remains guarded, authorities were urged to investigate.

Last September, another plot was uncovered involving a man allegedly collaborating with Iran. This suspect, portrayed as a businessman, reportedly traveled to Iran on clandestine missions. He was supposedly incentivized to execute high-stakes operations, like targeting Netanyahu.

October brought more turbulence when Netanyahu accused Iran of yet another plot after a drone from Lebanon struck near his abode in Caesarea. Luckily, no harm befell anyone as Netanyahu and his wife were absent. Reflecting on the incident, Netanyahu remarked, “Iran’s agents who tried to assassinate me and my wife today made a bitter mistake. This will not deter me or Israel from continuing the war of revival against our enemies to ensure our security for generations.”

As investigations proceed, authorities haven’t clarified if this recent plot by the woman correlates with past threats. It’s a complex web, with strands reaching far and wide. What fuels such animosity, leading individuals down perilous paths?