Israeli Man Indicted for Threatening and Vandalizing Media and Justice Ministry Offices

The Tel Aviv District Prosecutor's Office filed charges on Wednesday against 44-year-old Avraham Hadi from Ramat Gan for a series of offenses targeting media outlets and the Justice Ministry. The indictment, submitted to the Tel Aviv Magistrate's Court by attorney Ruth Barkali Dal, alleges that Hadi's actions were motivated by his views on the judicial system and certain media organizations. Authorities claim he sought to intimidate employees and coerce News 12 staff into apologizing for reports related to the Shde Teiman military base incident.

The case traces back to November 19, 2025, when Hadi spray-painted a threatening graffiti message on the wall opposite News 13's offices. In July 2026, his actions escalated to throwing bricks at glass doors of News 12, Haaretz newspaper, and the Justice Ministry, causing damage and fear among staff. On July 28, Hadi delivered an envelope containing a threatening letter to News 12, demanding an apology for the Shde Teiman coverage and warning that "someone will eventually die" if they did not comply. He then smashed the entrance door with bricks. The letter named several public figures and officials, accusing them of betrayal and ending with a divine retribution threat.

Security camera footage captured a masked man wearing gloves throwing bricks at the targeted buildings. Additional surveillance from Hadi's residence showed him leaving work and returning dressed similarly to the attacker. A search of his apartment on July 30 uncovered clothing matching the footage, and discarded shoes and pants found in a nearby trash bin were linked to him. Prosecutors allege he disposed of these items to obstruct justice, adding a charge of evidence tampering.

Hadi initially admitted to the graffiti but later denied involvement in the other acts, claiming during interrogation that "it was not me, it was demons and spirits." On August 9, the court ordered a psychiatric evaluation to assess his mental fitness for trial, with results expected soon. The indictment includes charges of threats, property damage, and extortion by threats related to his attempts to force media apologies.

This case highlights tensions surrounding media coverage of military misconduct allegations and the judicial system in Israel, with authorities pursuing legal action against individuals resorting to intimidation and violence.