MK Pindrus Sparks Outrage with Call to Shoot Protesters in Legs at Knesset Committee

During a Knesset Education Committee meeting on Monday, MK Yitzhak Pindrus ignited controversy by stating that anyone blocking roads should be shot in the legs. The remarks led to a heated exchange, particularly with MK Adi Azuz of Yesh Atid, who pointed out that Pindrus's party leader, Minister Yitzhak Goldknopf, had himself participated in road blockades. Azuz argued that by Pindrus's logic, Goldknopf should also be shot in the legs. Pindrus responded with a smile, suggesting they "start with Naama Lazimi," referencing another MK known for protesting.

The verbal confrontation escalated tensions in the committee, with some members dismissing the accusations while others expressed fear over the aggressive rhetoric. The incident sparked widespread political backlash. MK Naama Lazimi condemned Pindrus's statement on X (formerly Twitter), calling it a blood libel and a threat, and vowed not to be intimidated. She called for removing such figures from Israeli politics to rebuild a normative society.

Other opposition figures, including MK Yair Golan and MK Gilad Kariv, also denounced Pindrus's comments as incitement to violence. Kariv called for a criminal investigation against Pindrus for incitement and criticized the legal system for failing to protect opposition members from violence. The episode highlights rising tensions in Israeli politics surrounding protests and enforcement measures.

The Knesset Education Committee meeting thus became a focal point for debate over political discourse and the limits of acceptable speech regarding protesters and dissenters in Israel. The controversy is expected to fuel further political disputes and calls for accountability.