"Can continue to run for Knesset under the auspices of the High Court – instead of flying to Syria"

National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir reacted sharply to the conviction of MK Ofer Cassif for assaulting a police officer, criticized the judicial system for the length of the proceedings, and claimed it protects Arab parties. Ben Gvir backed the police and threatened lawbreakers.

National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir reacted sharply to the conviction of MK Ofer Cassif for assaulting a police officer under aggravated circumstances at the Jerusalem Magistrate's Court. Ben Gvir attacked the judicial system over the lengthy four-year process, claiming it indicates protection for Arab parties. According to him, Cassif can continue to run for Knesset under the auspices of the High Court instead of flying to Syria. The minister fully backed the police officers operating in the field and made clear that anyone who raises a hand against a police officer will face determined forces. The conviction stemmed from an incident in May 2022, when Cassif arrived at a protest in the southern Hebron Hills, clashed with police, cursed them, and injured an officer's leg with his vehicle, then struck him on the head. The court rejected his claims of self-defense.