Right-Wing Activist Yoav Eliassi Hints at Political Future After Police Dismissal

Yoav Eliassi, known as "HaTzel" (The Shadow), a right-wing activist, hinted at a possible political career following his official dismissal from volunteer service in the Israeli police. Eliassi made the statement on Instagram, saying, "When they accept me in a suit, they will miss the days I wore the uniform," suggesting a transition from police volunteer to politician. This comes after his removal from the police force earlier this week, following a hearing related to an ongoing investigation by the Police Internal Investigations Department (Mahash) into allegations of breach of trust. The investigation centers on suspicions that Eliassi used police connections to benefit a leisure complex.

Sources close to Eliassi explained that his dismissal was automatic due to the investigation, as any volunteer under inquiry is immediately suspended pending legal review. They added that if cleared, Eliassi could return to police service. Eliassi himself disputed reports that he was formally dismissed, stating he had voluntarily suspended his service until the investigation concludes and criticized media headlines as misleading. He expressed pride in his three years of volunteer work, emphasizing his dedication to saving lives and establishing a police unit.

Following his Instagram post hinting at a political path, Eliassi received supportive responses from his followers, encouraging him to pursue this new direction. The investigation by Mahash is still ongoing, and no final conclusions have been announced yet.