Givatayim Man Arrested After Pushing Bennett Guard

Naftali Bennett’s security team detained a 23-year-old man from Givatayim on Saturday night after the suspect allegedly shoved one of the former prime minister’s bodyguards. The incident occurred while Bennett was speaking at a rally in Tel Aviv. The event called for the creation of a commission to review the failures leading to the October 7 massacre.

The suspect was reportedly under the influence of alcohol. Witnesses say he shouted “Only Bibi,” a slogan supporting Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, while attempting to close the distance between himself and Bennett’s security detail. Guards instructed him to stay back, but he continued moving toward the perimeter.

The confrontation escalated when a guard pushed the man back. The suspect did not retreat and instead shoved the guard in response. Security personnel subdued the man and held him at the scene until police arrived. Officers took him into custody and transported him to a station for questioning.

Initial police checks found that the suspect has no prior criminal record. Investigators are currently reviewing the circumstances of the scuffle. The incident took place days before the 2026 Knesset elections. Israeli soldiers cast their ballots at military polling stations earlier this week.