Singer Ofer Levi Investigated for Incitement, Faces Internet Ban

Israeli singer Ofer Levi, 62, was questioned by police under caution following the circulation of an unusual video on social media. In the footage, Levi appears to make explicit calls for violence against supporters of a political party, stating, "Don't remove from here and don't beautify yourselves in courts... just execute by any method of execution." He further threatened that if his opposing political camp was not defeated, "we will take the law into our own hands with all our might."

Following urgent police reports and special approval from the State Attorney's Office to investigate incitement, Levi was located and interrogated on suspicion of publishing calls for violent acts and supporting or identifying with prohibited actions. After his initial questioning, he was released under restrictive conditions, including a complete ban on accessing and using the internet.

As the initial order expired, police requested a 15-day extension of the internet ban from the Tel Aviv Magistrate's Court to complete investigative actions. During a heated hearing, police representative Sergeant Major Daniela Bloch argued for the ban's full continuation, citing the need to prevent escalation, obstruction of the investigation, or public disorder.

Levi's defense attorney argued for a reduction of the ban, emphasizing its impact on the singer's professional activities, such as managing his performance schedule and closing contracts. The defense distinguished between Levi's personal internet use and that of his managers, who require online access for essential business operations.

Judge Shelly Kotin, after reviewing confidential investigation materials and hearing arguments, partially denied the police's request. She found sufficient evidence to justify continued restrictions but opted for a less intrusive measure. The judge ordered the internet ban to remain in effect for only six days, until the following Tuesday, when the situation will be re-evaluated based on the investigation's progress. This case is part of a recent trend of arrests for alleged incitement and defamation lawsuits stemming from social media posts.