Right-Wing Activist Harasses Actor Muni Mushonov Over Satire Show Participation

A disturbing video circulated on social media shows right-wing activist Eliran Siman Tov confronting veteran Israeli actor Muni Mushonov on the street. Siman Tov films Mushonov while aggressively questioning him about his age and accusing him of causing division in the nation due to his role in the satirical series "HaYehudim Ba'im" (The Jews Are Coming). Siman Tov asks Mushonov why he and others in the entertainment industry "refuse to die," implying criticism of their longevity and influence. Mushonov responds calmly, refusing to engage in confrontation and acknowledging the pain Siman Tov expresses.

Siman Tov posted the video on his own Facebook page, labeling Mushonov a "wicked old man who mocks Israel's sacred values" and claiming he is undeserving of respect. This is not Siman Tov's first public clash with left-leaning actors; earlier in July, he posted confrontations with Yossi Marshak, another cast member of "HaYehudim Ba'im." In September 2025, Siman Tov was issued a six-month restraining order following violent incidents at a bereaved families' protest near the Knesset, including verbal abuse and property damage.

In May 2026, Siman Tov was arrested on suspicion of spitting at former Prime Minister Ehud Olmert and verbally abusing him at the Tel Aviv Cinematheque. The Shin Bet security detail intervened, and Siman Tov denied spitting, claiming he only made a sound without words. He was released under restrictive conditions, including a ban on contacting Olmert. Court documents reveal Siman Tov has a criminal record related to drug offenses from 2007 to 2014, including convictions for possession and trafficking of dangerous drugs.

Muni Mushonov, 74, is a prominent Israeli actor and comedian known for his work on "Zehu Ze!" and the satirical series "HaYehudim Ba'im," which aired for six seasons on Israeli television. The show humorously explores Jewish and Israeli history and culture and has received critical acclaim. Mushonov has also been active in theater, particularly with the Habima National Theatre since 1980.

The incident highlights ongoing tensions in Israeli society between right-wing activists and cultural figures perceived as left-leaning or critical of nationalist narratives.