Israeli Police Arrest Teen in Escalating Grenade Attacks on Japnika Restaurants Amid Crime War

Israeli police have arrested an 18-year-old resident of Bat Yam on suspicion of throwing a stun grenade at a Japnika restaurant branch in Kiryat Ono on July 13. This arrest comes amid a surge of violent attacks targeting Japnika outlets across Israel, linked to an ongoing violent feud between two major crime families, the Jarushi and the Musli brothers.

The Tel Aviv District Central Unit announced the arrest on Friday morning, as investigations continue into a series of similar incidents in recent days from Herzliya to Afula and Netanya. These attacks include a shooting at a Japnika branch in Herzliya, a fire caused by a thrown stolen military weapon in Netanya, and a grenade attack in Afula. While no casualties were reported, significant property damage occurred.

The conflict reportedly involves the Jarushi crime organization, led by Ismail Jarushi, and the Musli brothers, Yossi and Eli. Some Japnika branches are allegedly connected to the Jarushi family, making them targets for retaliation by the Musli faction. Following a shooting at a Japnika branch in Raanana, the wholesale market in Rishon Lezion, linked to the Musli brothers, was also attacked.

The arrested teenager is scheduled for a remand hearing at Tel Aviv Magistrate’s Court. Police are intensifying their investigation to halt the wave of criminal violence targeting the Japnika chain, which has become a focal point in the escalating gang war. Authorities emphasize the use of military-grade weapons such as stun grenades, firearms, and stolen arms in these attacks, highlighting the public safety and economic risks posed by this feud.

Police efforts now focus on unraveling the complex connections between the incidents to end the dangerous escalation threatening public security and business stability.