Former MK Oren Hazan physically attacks Ariel municipality employee in attempt to disrupt meeting

Ariel council member and former MK Oren Hazan physically attacked a municipality employee during a city council meeting on Thursday evening, requiring medical attention for the employee and police notification. Mayor Yair Chetboun condemned the incident, stating a red line was crossed and vowing to demand suspension of council meetings until the matter is resolved. Hazan has a prior record of attacking Ariel officials, including a 2014 incident.

Ariel council member and former MK Oren Hazan physically attacked a municipality employee during a city council meeting on Thursday evening, October 8, 2026. The employee required medical attention following the altercation, and police were notified. Mayor Yair Chetboun condemned the incident, stating, "A red line was crossed today. We cannot allow this bullying to continue." Chetboun added that he would demand the Interior Ministry suspend Ariel council meetings until the matter concerning Hazan is resolved. Hazan has a prior record of attacking Ariel officials, including a 2014 incident where he allegedly attacked the city council chairman and the mayor over a lien on his mother's bank account.