Right-Wing Activist Mordechai David Plans Mass Selichot Prayers in Central Tel Aviv

Right-wing activist Mordechai David is organizing a series of large-scale Selichot prayer events starting next week in central Tel Aviv, including major public squares such as Habima and Dizengoff. These gatherings will feature high-volume sound systems, aiming to hold prayers throughout the city's busiest areas during the month of Selichot, a period of repentance in the Jewish calendar. David also indicated plans to expand the activities to include prayers directly beneath the homes of various public figures, though he did not specify which individuals.

This initiative comes amid ongoing tensions in Tel Aviv over religious events in public spaces, which have sparked repeated public controversies and protests in recent years. The planned use of loudspeakers and the scale of the events are expected to draw significant attention and potentially reignite conflicts between secular and religious communities in the city.

David confirmed the details and emphasized his intent to hold prayers in all central squares of Tel Aviv during this period. He hinted at further targeted actions if necessary. The timing of this campaign is notable as David is currently involved in complex legal proceedings. Recently, a Tel Aviv Magistrate's Court upheld a restraining order against him, issued at the request of Hadas Klein, which will remain in effect for six months. The court also rejected David's request to disqualify the judge in his case and fined him 4,000 shekels for what was deemed a frivolous motion.

In recent weeks, David has been questioned multiple times by police regarding incidents including blocking the car of former Supreme Court President Aharon Barak and confrontations related to the Netanyahu trial. These events highlight the strained relationship between David, the judicial system, and various groups in Tel Aviv.