MK Ofer Cassif Convicted of Assaulting Police Officer
Translated & summarized from Davar by baba
Member of Knesset Ofer Cassif was convicted by the Jerusalem District Court of assaulting a police officer under aggravated circumstances during a May 2022 protest. The court rejected claims of self-defense or parliamentary immunity. Cassif denounced the ruling as political persecution, while the Joint List criticized the judicial process and contrasted it with the actions of National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir.
The story in 5 lines · by baba
- MK Ofer Cassif was convicted of assaulting a police officer under aggravated circumstances.
- The incident occurred in May 2022 during a protest in the southern Hebron Hills.
- The court rejected Cassif's claims of self-defense and parliamentary immunity.
- Cassif called the conviction political persecution against those opposing the occupation.
- The Joint List criticized the court's decision and the actions of Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir.
The Jerusalem District Court convicted Member of Knesset Ofer Cassif on Thursday of assaulting a police officer under aggravated circumstances. The incident occurred in May 2022 during a protest in the southern Hebron Hills.
According to the indictment, Cassif attempted to move his vehicle into the protest area, but police prevented him due to concerns for the demonstrators' safety and because the road led to Area A. Following an argument, Cassif entered his car, drove backward a few meters, and then advanced toward the officer, hitting his leg. The prosecution further alleged that after the officer approached Cassif, the MK exited his vehicle and struck the officer on the head.
The Jerusalem District Prosecutor's Office argued that both strikes were intentional and aimed at obstructing the officer in his duty. The court accepted the prosecution's position, ruling that Cassif's actions were not covered by self-defense or the immunity afforded to him as a Knesset member.
Cassif responded by calling his conviction part of a "political persecution" against those who oppose the occupation and advocate for democracy, justice, and peace. He stated that attempts to silence dissenting voices through the courts demonstrate fear of uncomfortable truths and a biased system manipulated by "serial criminals" who terrorize Palestinians. Cassif vowed to continue his struggle.
The Joint List faction expressed solidarity with Cassif, criticizing the court's preference for police testimony over that of human rights activists. They asserted that Cassif is being persecuted for participating in a protest against the occupation and for his consistent support of Palestinians living under occupation. The Joint List also noted that while Cassif faces legal proceedings, Minister of National Security Itamar Ben-Gvir continues to support officers involved in such incidents.
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