Givatayim man arrested after shoving security detail at Bennett rally

A 23-year-old man from Givatayim was arrested Saturday night after a physical confrontation with security staff at a rally in Tel Aviv. The former prime minister and B'Yachad party chairman Naftali Bennett was speaking at an event demanding a commission of inquiry into the failures leading to the October 7 massacre.

According to initial reports, the suspect was under the influence of alcohol. He approached the security detail surrounding Bennett while shouting the slogan “Only Bibi,” a phrase of support for Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. Guards attempted to maintain the perimeter and instructed the man to stay back, but he continued to push toward Bennett.

When a guard pushed him back, the man confronted the officer and shoved him in return. The security team subdued the suspect and held him at the scene while waiting for law enforcement. Police officers arrived at the park, arrested the man, and transported him to a police station for questioning.

An initial check revealed the suspect has no prior criminal record. Investigators are currently examining the specific circumstances of the incident. The event took place in a public park in Tel Aviv.

Bennett served as prime minister from June 2021 to June 2022. The arrest occurred days before the 2026 Knesset elections. IDF soldiers cast their ballots at military polling stations earlier this week.