Pregnant Woman Assaulted and Denied Bus Access in Nesher Over Clothing Choice

Tal Kostika, a pregnant woman, was verbally and physically attacked at a bus stop near the Culture Hall in Nesher last Wednesday while waiting for bus line 78. Wearing a tank top and long leggings, she was harassed by an older man wearing a kippah who cursed, spat, and threatened her, saying she would not be allowed on the bus dressed that way. Despite attempts by bystanders to intervene, the man persisted in his abuse.

Tal called the police and asked the bus driver to wait for them before departing, but the driver refused and allowed the attacker to board. Once on the bus, the man pushed Tal against the door and struck her hard in the abdomen while continuing to curse and spit at her. Tal was taken to the hospital to ensure her unborn child was unharmed and subsequently filed complaints with both the police and the Egged bus company.

Tal expressed fear and frustration over the incident, stating, "If I am not safe near my home, where will I be?" She highlighted the growing concern over women's safety and freedom in public spaces, especially in mixed cities like Nesher. Attorney Ilanit Soibelman, head of "Alice's Line" at the Israel Women's Lobby, condemned the attack as part of a disturbing trend of violence and attempts to control women's presence in public through intimidation and harassment.

Egged responded that the incident occurred outside the bus and was therefore not their responsibility, clarifying that Tal was not denied entry to the bus. The police said the matter is under investigation. Tal remains traumatized but determined to stay strong for her pregnancy and young child.