Right-Wing Activist Yoav Eliasi Investigated for Alleged Police Influence Abuse

Yoav Eliasi, a right-wing activist and rapper known as "HaTzalam," was summoned on Wednesday for questioning by the Police Investigations Department (Mahash) following a probe into recordings suggesting he exploited his police connections for personal gain. The investigation arose after a Haaretz report published testimonies and audio clips in which Eliasi, formerly commander of the Tel Aviv district rapid response unit, appeared to leverage his police status to benefit a nightlife venue he co-owned.

According to a police source last week, Eliasi requested to freeze his command role after the report surfaced. Recently, Police Commissioner Major General Danni Levi decided to remove Eliasi from his position. Eliasi is known to be close to National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir.

In the recordings, likely from last year, Eliasi is heard saying, "I’m educating them in the police that this club cannot be touched." He also told a business partner, "Anything related to the police and the club, you call me immediately, no matter the hour." He expressed frustration over the police ordering the club to close at 4:30 a.m., questioning who the officer was and emphasizing the importance of the matter. When informed that the club manager spoke with officer Menashe Menzur from the Tel Aviv Lev station, Eliasi responded, "Menashe is like a brother, I will talk to him now."