Dozens in Negev Rally in Support of Deputy Mayor Shimon Toubul Amid Political Controversy

Dozens of residents from the Negev gathered at Be'er Sheva's city hall plaza on Wednesday to firmly back Deputy Mayor Shimon Toubul, calling for an end to defamation campaigns against him and highlighting his extensive military service for Israel. The demonstration came amid a political dispute following Toubul's recent joining of the Noam party, led by Knesset member Avi Maoz, and calls from a small group of far-left protesters demanding his removal.

Toubul, who previously ran independently in Be'er Sheva municipal elections securing three seats under the Degel HaTorah ticket, recently informed Degel HaTorah chairman MK Moshe Gafni of his decision to leave the party. Supporters at the rally praised Toubul's public service and his hundreds of days of reserve duty during the recent war, emphasizing that he was democratically elected and represents his constituents. They urged Be'er Sheva's mayor not to yield to pressure from far-left activists ahead of an upcoming council meeting.

Organizers described Toubul as a "hero of Israel" who left his home to serve in the reserves while others protested. They called for a fair process free from political bias and pledged continued support until the truth is revealed. As part of his integration into Noam, Toubul will be placed on the party's candidate list for the upcoming Knesset elections. Noam plans to officially launch its election campaign and open its central campaign headquarters on Wednesday, where Toubul will be formally introduced as a new party member.