Motorcycle Convoy With Islamist Party Flags Sparks Fear in Negev

A convoy of motorcyclists and scooter riders waving green flags associated with the Islamic Movement and the Ra'am party caused alarm among residents in the Negev region on Wednesday. The riders were seen speeding recklessly on South roads, occupying an entire lane and endangering other drivers. The disturbing footage, which circulated widely on social media, initially led some to believe it was a security incident, particularly given the date, which was close to the anniversary of the October 7th attacks.

Right-wing activist Igal Malka was among the first to share the video, initially misidentifying the flags as Hamas. He later clarified that they belonged to Ra'am, which he described as a campaign. Moshe Feiglin, chairman of the Zehut party, strongly criticized the event, stating that the sight of the convoy instilled fear in Jewish drivers who worried about another infiltration. He questioned the notion that this was merely an election campaign, emphasizing the display of "dominance and forcefulness."

Minister of National Security Itamar Ben-Gvir also commented on the incident, noting that the riders were traveling with illegal green flags of the Islamic Movement Ra'am, frightening residents and evoking memories of October 7th. He asserted that his policy had changed and that forces from the Yoav unit of the Southern District had stopped the convoy, issued tickets, and sent a clear message. Police established a roadblock, and one rider attempted to flee, lost control of his scooter, and crashed. He was arrested for driving without a license or insurance and for disobeying police orders. He was taken for further processing, and his scooter was impounded.

Some riders were seen carrying delivery bags for the food delivery company Wolt. Wolt stated that it had no connection to the event or the political activity shown, adding that initial checks indicated the bags were reported stolen. In a broader context, police reported issuing over 1,000 traffic tickets in the Negev in the past week as part of enforcement against road bullying, with approximately 200 issued to drivers and riders of two-wheeled vehicles.