Police detain Givatayim man after clash with Naftali Bennett security

A 23-year-old resident of Givatayim lost his freedom on Saturday night after a physical confrontation with a security officer assigned to former Prime Minister Naftali Bennett. The arrest took place in Tel Aviv during a public gathering. Bennett, the chairman of the B'Yachad party, was addressing a crowd that demanded the creation of a commission of inquiry into the events of the October 7 massacre. The suspect was taken into custody by police officers who responded to the scene at the park where the rally was held.

Witnesses and security personnel described a chaotic moment as the man attempted to breach the perimeter protecting the former premier. He shouted the slogan “Only Bibi,” a phrase used to show support for current Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. The suspect ignored instructions from the guards to maintain his distance. Despite repeated warnings, he pushed forward toward the security detail. One officer pushed him back, but the man continued to advance. He eventually shoved the guard in return, triggering the physical altercation.

The security team subdued the man on the ground and held him until police arrived. Officers took him to a local station for questioning. An initial review of his background showed that he had no prior criminal record. Investigators noted that he appeared to be under the influence of alcohol at the time of the incident. The police are currently examining the specific circumstances of the scuffle to determine if further charges will be filed.

Bennett served as Prime Minister of Israel from June 2021 to June 2022. He remains a prominent figure in Israeli politics as the leader of his own party. The incident occurred against the backdrop of an intensifying electoral campaign. The 2026 Knesset elections are scheduled for the coming weeks, marking a major political test for all parties involved.

Military personnel began the voting process earlier this week at designated polling stations. This step precedes the wider public vote and sets the stage for the final phase of the election. The security detail surrounding Bennett operates with heightened caution during campaign events, reflecting the crowded and energetic atmosphere of recent rallies. The police investigation will continue in the days ahead to clarify the exact sequence of events during the rally.