Barak Abramov Denies Crime Family Ties Amid Violent Attacks on Japanika Restaurants

Barak Abramov, owner of Japanika, the largest restaurant chain in Israel, and Beitar Jerusalem football club, broke his silence in an exclusive interview following a series of violent attacks on his restaurants. Over the past week, nine Japanika branches were targeted with 17 grenades, explosives, and arson attempts. The Israeli police suspect a feud between two crime families, the Jarushi and the Musli clans, as the cause. Abramov firmly denied any business or criminal ties to either family, describing his connections as minimal and respectful but not friendly or collaborative.

Abramov recounted that his only interactions with the Musli family were through his former ownership of the Bnei Yehuda football club, where he attended one family event as a gesture of respect. Regarding the Jarushi family, he explained a brief acquaintance through a mutual friend and confirmed he had given football tickets to one member upon request, stressing this was a simple courtesy unrelated to any illicit dealings.

He challenged the police to arrest him if they had evidence of wrongdoing, noting that in a previous investigation eight years ago, authorities found no criminal connection. Abramov also revealed that National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir personally contacted him on July 15 to discuss the attacks and ensure police protection, which included assigning officers outside all 46 Japanika branches. Since then, the violence has subsided.

Abramov expressed frustration with media speculation, emphasizing that the attacks are not related to Japanika’s business but rather stem from external conflicts. He acknowledged financial damage but said it was too early to quantify. He also mentioned that his business partners, including Leumi Partners who invested about one billion shekels for a 20% stake, have been in contact to check on the situation.

Despite the threats to his restaurants, Abramov stated he has not received personal threats and feels relatively safe. He concluded by reiterating his innocence and willingness to cooperate fully with law enforcement, calling himself a victim caught between criminal disputes rather than a participant.