Singer Ofer Levi Barred From Internet After Inciting Violence

Israeli singer Ofer Levi was arrested and questioned by police on suspicion of inciting violence after a disturbing video attributed to him went viral on Tuesday, the same day millions voted in the 26th Knesset elections. Police stated they "view incitement to violence and threats with severity" and would act against anyone threatening public peace and security, even via social media. Levi, 62, who is known to support right-wing politics and Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, admitted to his actions during questioning and was released under restrictive conditions.

On Thursday, the Tel Aviv Magistrate's Court issued a further order, prohibiting Levi from using the internet until November 3rd at 12:00 PM. The decision was made during a hearing presided over by Judge Shelly Kotin. Police Sergeant Major Daniel Bloch of Holon requested an extension of the internet restriction, emphasizing it was a comprehensive ban on all internet use, not just social media. "After reviewing the investigation file and the document marked M/2, I have considered the attributed suspicions and the arguments of the parties, and I find it appropriate to grant the request, but only partially," the judge wrote in her decision. "Therefore, I am prohibiting the suspect from using the internet until 03/11/26 at 12:00 PM," she concluded.

The video in question featured Levi making severe and dangerous statements, which constituted direct incitement to violence and murder against citizens with differing political views. "Anyone who supports this left, let him know he is a terrorist in every sense and it is obligatory to execute him," Levi stated emphatically. He added, "It is a commandment to execute, truly to execute. Not to expel or destroy homes, simply to execute."

The video sparked widespread shock across the political system and social media, with many demanding an urgent criminal investigation against the singer for incitement to violence and terror on election day.