Man arrested after pushing Bennett guard

A 23-year-old man from Givatayim was arrested on Saturday night for allegedly shoving a bodyguard assigned to former Prime Minister Naftali Bennett. The incident occurred in Tel Aviv while Bennett spoke at a rally demanding the creation of a commission of inquiry into the events of October 7.

According to sources, the suspect appeared to be under the influence of alcohol. He attempted to breach the security perimeter surrounding Bennett while shouting “Only Bibi,” a slogan supporting Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. Guards instructed him to stay back, but he continued to push toward the stage.

When one guard pushed the man back, the suspect turned and shoved the officer in return. The security team subdued the individual and held him at the scene until police arrived. Officers transported the man to a local police station for questioning.

Preliminary checks indicate the suspect has no prior criminal record. Investigators are currently reviewing the specific circumstances of the altercation. The event took place in a public park in Tel Aviv.

Bennett served as Prime Minister from June 2021 to June 2022. He currently chairs the B’Yachad party. The incident happened days before the 2026 Knesset elections. IDF soldiers cast their ballots at military polling stations earlier this week.