Right-Wing Activist Yoav Eliassi Denies Police Dismissal, Claims Media Harassment

Yoav Eliassi, known as "The Shadow," addressed recent rumors about his dismissal from the Israeli police force, clarifying that he voluntarily paused his service rather than being removed by Police Commissioner Dany Levi. In a video posted on Instagram, Eliassi accused the media of relentless persecution over more than a decade, stating that every year for the past 12 years, attempts were made to fabricate cases against him. He described how his public activism, particularly since 2014 when he protested with a flag at the Habima Theater, turned him into a target for media hostility.

Eliassi also revealed the personal toll of these attacks, including financial difficulties between 2014 and 2019 due to canceled performances and false accusations. He firmly denied any violent behavior, citing an incident in 2016 when a bomb exploded in his car while he was inside with his child. Despite the controversy, he expressed hope to return to active duty, emphasizing his commitment to security work and stating that if his police service ends, he will reveal the full truth.

The controversy began after reports in Haaretz alleged that Eliassi misused his police connections to benefit a Tel Aviv entertainment venue he co-owned, supported by leaked recordings suggesting he leveraged his influence improperly. His lawyers, Ariel Atri and Yaniv Lankari, rejected claims of dismissal, asserting Eliassi remains a respected commander in the Tel Aviv district readiness unit and that any decisions should follow a formal process rather than media reports.

Eliassi’s response highlights ongoing tensions between his right-wing activism and institutional scrutiny, with the police commissioner’s office yet to confirm any formal disciplinary action. The case remains under public and legal scrutiny as Eliassi insists on his innocence and readiness to clear his name.