Two Young Men Charged After Series of Explosive Attacks in Central Israel

On July 14, 2026, Yoav Gazit, 20, from Lod, and Ziv Bechar, 23, from Modi'in, allegedly carried out three criminal attacks within nine days across central Israel, according to the Central District Prosecutor's Office. The first incident occurred in Rishon Lezion, where Gazit reportedly tried to open a residential building's door with a stun grenade and, failing that, threw the grenade at the door. At that moment, a resident and her dog were behind the door; the grenade exploded causing damage, soot, and smoke.

About a week later, the two were recorded filling a bottle with gasoline at a gas station in Lod, then traveled to Netanya where Gazit allegedly set fire to an RZR SUV, which was completely destroyed. Two days after that, in Ramat Gan, Gazit threw another stun grenade at a residential building's entrance. Approximately ten minutes later, police arrested the pair, finding another grenade, black clothing, a veil, and gloves in their vehicle.

Evidence includes surveillance footage of their car near the crime scenes, GPS tracking data, and Waze searches on their phones for addresses related to the incidents. DNA from Gazit was found on the stun grenade thrown in Ramat Gan. Wiretap recordings captured the two discussing some of the acts in real time. Gazit remained silent during interrogation, while Bechar admitted to driving but claimed ignorance of Gazit's actions.

The indictment charges them with weapons possession and transport, use of explosives, and arson. The prosecution requested their continued detention, citing the dangerousness of their actions, disregard for human life, and property damage.