Man Charged for Throwing Stone and Threatening Israel's Channel 12 Newsroom

Abraham Hadi, a resident of Ramat Gan in his 40s, is set to face indictment for damaging property and extortion threats against several Israeli media outlets and the Ministry of Justice. On July 28, 2026, Hadi threw a stone at the entrance of Channel 12's newsroom in Tel Aviv, shattering the door and leaving a threatening note stating, "Next time the stone will be aimed at one of your heads" and "Eventually someone will die." Similar damage occurred in July at the offices of Haaretz, Israel Hayom, and the Ministry of Justice.

Following these incidents, the Shin Bet joined the investigation alongside the Tel Aviv Central Crime Unit. Police used technological and covert methods to identify and track Hadi, who was arrested on July 30. A search of his home uncovered clothing and other evidence linking him to the crimes. Hadi has a prior record including graffiti vandalism against Channel 13 and public buildings, and a separate assault case in Bnei Brak.

The Attorney General filed a statement of claim against Hadi on August 9, and his detention was extended by four days, with prosecutors expected to request further extension until the trial concludes. The incidents sparked condemnation across the political spectrum. President Isaac Herzog emphasized the necessity of swift and firm action to uphold free and independent journalism, calling it a cornerstone of democracy. Police Commissioner Danny Levi also vowed a serious response and ordered full operational efforts to apprehend the perpetrator.

Channel 12 warned that attacks on journalists threaten press freedom and called on the government and Communications Minister to stop inciting hostility against the free press. The Israeli Journalists Association highlighted the escalation of hostility toward media professionals, stressing that violence against newsrooms undermines the public's right to reliable and independent information.