Givatayim man detained after shoving Naftali Bennett's security detail at Tel Aviv rally
Police arrested a 23-year-old suspect who allegedly pushed a bodyguard while shouting slogans in support of Prime Minister Netanyahu at a political event.
By Anna Nowak ·
In the lead up to the 2026 Knesset elections, tensions flared at a political gathering in Tel Aviv where former prime minister Naftali Bennett was speaking. The event, held on Saturday night, was organized to press for a commission of inquiry into the events of October 7.
A 23-year-old resident of Givatayim was taken into custody late Saturday evening following a physical confrontation with one of Bennett's security personnel. Initial reports confirm the incident occurred while Bennett was addressing the crowd at the rally.
Witnesses and sources describe the suspect as appearing intoxicated. He attempted to breach the security perimeter surrounding the former prime minister. As he moved closer to the group, the man was heard shouting the slogan "Only Bibi," a phrase commonly used to express support for current Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.
Despite clear instructions from the guards to maintain distance, the man continued to push forward. The security team attempted to hold the line, but the suspect did not retreat. This persistence led to a direct physical exchange between the man and one of the officers protecting the political figure.
The altercation escalated when the guard pushed the suspect back to re-establish the barrier. Rather than complying, the man confronted the officer and shoved him in return. The security detail quickly subdued the individual and held him at the scene while waiting for law enforcement to arrive.
Police officers responded to the location in the park and formally arrested the suspect. He was transported to a local police station for further questioning. Investigators are currently reviewing the specific circumstances of the incident to determine the extent of the conflict and the condition of those involved.
Preliminary checks indicate that the suspect has no prior criminal record. Authorities believe he was under the influence of alcohol at the time of the incident. This finding may play a role in how the case proceeds in the coming days.
The incident occurs at a significant moment in the Israeli political calendar. Bennett served as prime minister from June 2021 to June 2022. With the 2026 elections approaching, IDF soldiers have already cast their ballots at military polling stations earlier this week. The event underscores the heightened atmosphere surrounding the upcoming vote and the ongoing calls for accountability regarding the October 7 massacre.
Source: The Jerusalem Post
