Yeruham Council Head Clashes with Police During Protest Over KKL Funding Cut

A rare confrontation occurred on Tuesday involving Nili Aharon, the head of Yeruham Council, and police officers during a protest against the Jewish National Fund's (KKL) decision to stop funding the Yeruham Lake Park. The protest took place in the nearby local council of Omer during a visit by the KKL chairman to the area. Video footage shows Aharon physically confronting police, who reportedly attempted to handcuff her and used force to subdue her, including pushing her to the ground.

Yeruham Council officials stated that Aharon’s presence at the protest was coordinated and peaceful, aimed at opposing KKL’s funding cut which threatens the livelihood of many workers and the future of a key public asset. The council claims that approximately 40 million shekels allocated for the park’s development have been delayed for over four years, with KKL refusing to engage in dialogue with the council leadership.

Following the incident, Aharon was taken by ambulance to Soroka Medical Center due to medical concerns linked to her prior heart procedures and abnormal health indicators triggered by the event. The council has demanded an immediate investigation into the police conduct and urged KKL to reverse its decision and resume negotiations.

The Israel Police stated that officers were called to the Omer council offices following reports of public disorder. They said Aharon refused to accompany them initially and was warned she could be arrested. She later apologized and withdrew her complaint, ending the police involvement. No official response from KKL has been released yet.