Arab Butcher in Bat Yam Faces Attacks After Donating Meat to Israeli Soldiers

Mohammad Kayan, owner of the "Mohammad the Man" butcher shop in Bat Yam, became a symbol of mutual support during the recent conflict after donating hundreds of tons of meat to IDF soldiers fighting in Gaza following the October 7 massacre. However, in recent weeks, he has faced escalating hostility and racist attacks, including an incident where a masked Jewish man armed with a hand grenade entered his shop. Mohammad confronted and subdued the attacker, who attempted to detonate the grenade, describing the moment as a desperate act of self-destruction.

This attack was not isolated; previously, an unknown assailant poured flammable liquid and set fire to the shop's entrance, fortunately causing no injuries. Despite repeatedly cooperating with the police, Mohammad has seen little effective response. The suspect in the grenade attack was arrested and identified as Jewish, with a nationalist motive. Mohammad criticized the current political and public discourse in Israel, blaming politicians for fostering division and hatred that incite such violence.

Adding to the irony and frustration, Mohammad was summoned to the police station shortly after the grenade incident and threatened with closure of his business if he did not comply. He called for unity among all communities, emphasizing that people of all backgrounds live together and share the consequences of conflict. Mohammad highlighted that the October 7 attack affected both Jews and Arabs alike, urging society to reject hatred and division.

His story underscores the complex social tensions in Israel amid ongoing conflict, where acts of solidarity can provoke backlash fueled by political rhetoric and societal fractures.