Suspect in Lawyer Arbel Feldman's Murder Faces Imminent Indictment After Court Hearing

Ahmad Aljarub, suspected of murdering lawyer Arbel Feldman, appeared Monday at the Magistrate's Court in Rishon Lezion as the investigation nears completion. The investigative unit filed a prosecutor's statement against him on charges including premeditated murder, evidence destruction, and obstruction of justice, signaling preparations for an indictment. Feldman was shot dead on August 4 inside his office. Police allege Aljarub arrived armed, entered the office floor, and shot Feldman within seconds, including shots to his back.

Following the shooting, Aljarub reportedly fled south by car, during which police believe he disposed of the murder weapon and his mobile phone, neither of which have been recovered. Defense attorney Oren Sasson contested that investigators lack proof Aljarub destroyed or discarded these items. After the flight, Aljarub surrendered at the Ashdod police station, consulting with his wife and lawyer beforehand. Police claim he confessed to the murder upon arrival, but Sasson denied any confession, stating Aljarub was advised to remain silent. The absence of body cameras during his surrender complicated verification of the alleged confession.

Aljarub maintained silence during further questioning and did not provide a full account. While in detention, he threatened to kill a cellmate if one was placed with him, yet authorities introduced another detainee to monitor and support him. Sasson requested a psychiatric evaluation before indictment submission. The court extended Aljarub's detention by four days, until August 27, as investigators await final autopsy results and digital evidence. Prosecutors believe the existing evidence suffices for indictment despite missing weapon and phone, while the defense highlights gaps between police assumptions and provable facts. Judge Nir Gantzarski ruled the detention extension justified pending formal charges and possible further detention requests.