Friend of Benyahu Razi Contradicts Suspects’ Self-Defense Claim in Jerusalem Murder Case

A key witness in the murder investigation of 19-year-old Benyahu Razi, who was fatally stabbed in a Jerusalem Airbnb last month, has directly challenged the suspects’ version of events. Metania, a friend of Razi who was also injured during the attack, disputed the claim of the main suspect, 17-year-old Aviaor Sasson, that he acted in self-defense. Sasson alleged in his interrogation that Razi was the first to draw a knife and that his actions were defensive. However, Metania testified that Razi never held a knife and that the attackers had two knives, stating, "It’s not logical that he was stabbed with his own knife." He also described seeing a folded pocket knife on the floor after Razi was already down.

During the court hearing, prosecutors filed indictments against seven suspects involved in the incident. Evidence presented included WhatsApp messages indicating premeditated intent to harm Razi, such as a message from Agam Tzarfati to Shilat Huta saying, "He’s dying today," referring to Razi. Tzarfati also sent threatening messages to Razi. The female suspects claimed their phones were confiscated and that they acted out of fear, but Metania contradicted this, noting they made live video calls during the event.

The attack occurred during a gathering at an Airbnb in the Nachlaot neighborhood, where Razi and his friend were confronted by Tzarfati, her ex-boyfriend, and others. According to the investigation, Linor Sasson, mother of Aviaor, facilitated the arrival of a group of youths who assaulted Razi and his friend, resulting in Razi’s death. The investigation also revealed attempts by Tzarfati and Huta to coerce Aviaor’s minor sister into taking responsibility for the murder, which she refused.

Additionally, a prison officer was arrested on suspicion of obstructing the investigation by assisting Aviaor’s brother, who is serving a prison sentence, in hiding and providing phone access during his fugitive period. The police are treating Sasson’s self-defense claim with skepticism due to contradictory evidence.

The case continues to unfold as the court examines the conflicting testimonies and digital evidence surrounding the fatal stabbing of Benyahu Razi.