Givatayim resident arrested after shoving guard at Bennett rally

A physical clash between a former prime minister's security team and a 23-year-old man ended in an arrest on Saturday night in Tel Aviv. The incident occurred at a rally organized by Naftali Bennett, chairman of the B'Yachad party, which was focused on demanding a commission of inquiry into the October 7 massacre.

Bennett served as prime minister from June 2021 to June 2022. He has returned to the political spotlight ahead of the 2026 Knesset elections. Military personnel began casting ballots at polling stations earlier this week, marking the start of the voting process for the general election.

Police identified the suspect as a resident of Givatayim. Sources indicated he was likely under the influence of alcohol at the time of the incident. Initial records showed the man had no prior criminal history.

The man allegedly approached the security detail surrounding Bennett while shouting the slogan 'Only Bibi.' Guards instructed him to stay back, but he continued to push toward the former premier. When one guard pushed him away, the man turned and shoved the officer in return.

Security personnel subdued the suspect and held him at the scene until police arrived. Officers took him to a local station for questioning. Investigators are currently reviewing the details of the confrontation to determine the specific circumstances that led to the arrest.