Naftali Bennett's Security Team Grapples With Protester Shouting 'Only Bibi'

A 23-year-old man from Givatayim was taken into custody on Saturday night following a physical altercation with security personnel. The incident occurred during a public gathering in Tel Aviv where former prime minister and B'Yachad party chairman Naftali Bennett was addressing a crowd. The man, who had no prior criminal record, was apprehended by officers who arrived at the park to manage the scene.

The suspect was reportedly under the influence of alcohol at the time of the incident. He attempted to breach the security perimeter surrounding Bennett while vocalizing support for current Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. Witnesses noted that the man was shouting the slogan 'Only Bibi' as he pushed toward the central figure of the event.

Bennett was participating in a rally specifically designed to demand the creation of a commission of inquiry. The group was calling for an investigation into the failures that contributed to the October 7 massacre. The security detail was tasked with maintaining order and keeping the crowd at a safe distance from the former leader.

The confrontation began when the man ignored direct instructions from the guards to stay back. He continued to push through the line of security officers. One guard physically pushed the suspect back to prevent him from reaching Bennett, but the man did not retreat.

Instead of moving away, the suspect confronted the guard directly. He shoved the officer in return, escalating the situation from a verbal protest to a physical scuffle. The other members of the security team quickly moved in to assist their colleague in the struggle.

The guards managed to subdue the man and held him in place at the scene. They contacted the police while keeping the suspect contained. Officers arrived at the park shortly after the initial reports of the disturbance. The police arrested the suspect and transported him to a nearby station for further questioning.

Investigators are currently examining the specific circumstances of the event. An initial review of the suspect's background confirmed that he has no previous criminal history. The team is also reviewing the evidence to determine if the alcohol consumption played a significant role in his behavior during the rally.

The timing of the incident is politically significant. It takes place just days before the 2026 Knesset elections. Military personnel have already begun the voting process, with IDF soldiers casting their ballots at designated polling stations earlier this week. The event highlights the heightened tension surrounding the upcoming national vote.