Israeli President Visits Elderly Arab Assault Victim

President Isaac Herzog visited an elderly Arab man, Ahmed Al-Husseini, 66, who was assaulted and injured at the Damascus Gate in Jerusalem earlier in the week. Herzog expressed deep sorrow over the incident, stating that the entire Israeli nation was pained by what happened. He condemned the violence, emphasizing that no elderly person, or anyone, should be treated in such a manner and called for all available means to confront such violence.

Al-Husseini recounted that he was on his way to work when the attack occurred, describing his disorientation and repeated falls during the assault. He stated he tried to get away from the scene and was in shock.

Knesset Member Gilad Kariv of the Labor Party also met with Al-Husseini on Thursday. Kariv criticized what he termed "shocking violence by racist extremists." According to Kariv, Al-Husseini had to seek urgent medical attention himself because he received no assistance from Israeli soldiers or police officers, despite the checkpoint at Damascus Gate being staffed. Kariv described the situation as "indifference, violence, and cruelty" that does not represent Judaism but rather a "deep sickness in our society." He asserted that the vast majority of Israelis detest such behavior but remain a "silent majority," allowing troublemakers to gain momentum. Kariv urged the police to bring the assailants to justice.