Israeli Prosecutors Charge Two Young Men for Throwing Grenade at Japnika Restaurant

The Israeli State Prosecutor's Office filed charges on Thursday against 22-year-old Netanel Avodi and 18-year-old Nehorai Chabaz from Bat Yam for throwing a grenade at the Japnika restaurant in Kiryat Ono about a month ago. According to the indictment submitted to the Tel Aviv District Court by attorney Tamar Teitelbaum, the two conspired to throw a grenade at the restaurant. They equipped themselves with electric bicycles and a grenade, arriving at the restaurant in the middle of the night when one employee was inside and two others were nearby.

Avodi and Chabaz were arrested near the restaurant after repeatedly throwing the grenade at the building until it exploded, causing damage to the restaurant and nearby shops. The indictment accuses them of aggravated assault, damage using explosives, and jointly carrying and transporting a weapon. Avodi also faces charges of obstructing justice. The prosecution has requested their detention until the conclusion of legal proceedings.

The detention request highlights the defendants' lack of remorse, boldness, and determination, noting their repeated grenade throws at the restaurant window where an employee was working. Their conduct during the investigation, including initial lies and subsequent silence, has increased concerns about their dangerousness, as the motive behind their actions remains unclear. Journalist Amit Segal described the incident as "dramatic."