Search in prison. Photo: depositphotos.
On Thursday, 12 December, an Israeli prison was brutally searched by four defendants accused of launching flares near the home of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in Caesarea. The search took place immediately after one of the defendants was visited by Avoda MK Gilad Kariv. According to representatives of the Prisons Authority (Shabas), the procedure was carried out because of suspicions that the parliamentarian could have passed prohibited information or items to the prisoners. This was reported by Time Ukraine Israel, citing Vesty.
The defendants in the courtroom: Lior El-Hai.
Shabas denies political implications of the search
Representatives of Shabas claim that the search was carried out in compliance with the rights of prisoners and without violating ethics. They deny any connection between the MP’s visit and the search, stressing that all actions were aimed at the security of the prison and the implementation of the law. However, Gilad Kariv, who actively supports the defendants, believes that the search was an act of political revenge. He stated that the authorities are trying to discredit him and his party for supporting individuals whom they consider to be victims of political persecution.
Criticism from the opposition and human rights activists
Kariv also criticised the difficulties he faced in obtaining permission to visit prisoners, in particular due to the interference of the office of the Minister of National Security, Itamar Ben-Gvir. The politician believes that the search is part of a broader political campaign aimed at undermining the credibility of opposition figures. At the same time, he called on opposition leaders to support the defendants in the case, which, in his opinion, has strong political overtones.
Action in support of the defendants and the trial
On Sunday, 15 December, the Haifa District Court held a hearing to discuss the pre-trial restraint for the defendants. A rally in support of the defendants was held outside the court, attended by dozens of people, including former Shabak chairman and IDF reserve major general Ami Eilon.
The defendants’ lawyers argue that the case is far-fetched and there are no grounds for detention. They also criticise the search, which, in their opinion, was a political act.
Charges of terrorist acts and obstruction of the investigation
On 2 December 2024, four people were indicted in the Haifa District Court in the case of the launch of flares near the residence of Prime Minister Netanyahu. The defendants are Brigadier General Ofer Doron, his son Gal Doron, Itay Yafeh and Amir Sadeh. They are charged with irresponsible handling of pyrotechnics with terrorist motives and attempted arson. Doron and his son also face an additional charge of attempting to obstruct the investigation.
The case remains in the focus of attention of both human rights organisations and politicians, who are concerned about its political implications.
