Bnei Sakhnin Players' Cars Attacked After Season Opener Against Maccabi Netanya

In a serious incident of violence following the first round of the Israeli football season, players from Bnei Sakhnin had their cars attacked after their match against Maccabi Netanya on Monday evening near the Miriam Stadium in Netanya. According to the club, the vehicles of players Iyad Abu Abid and Ilai Hajaj were targeted. Hajaj's pregnant wife was in the car during the attack. Abu Abid attempted to avoid confrontation but was later asked by police to stop and has been summoned to provide testimony regarding the incident.

The club also reported that a car carrying Bnei Sakhnin fans, including a medical student, was attacked. The club expressed deep concern over the violent events, emphasizing the potential for serious injury and condemning all forms of violence inside and outside football venues. They called on the Israeli police and relevant authorities to investigate, identify those responsible, and ensure they face legal consequences.

This incident follows another violent episode less than 24 hours earlier, when a group of Maccabi Tel Aviv supporters violently attacked Hapoel Jerusalem fans as they were leaving a game, using tear gas, batons, stones, and causing significant damage to vehicles and personal property. Several victims required medical treatment, including one who was transferred to a specialized head injury unit. Hapoel Jerusalem described the attack as a "real lynching" and urged law enforcement and opposing clubs to take strict measures against the perpetrators.

In response to these events, Israeli police launched an accelerated investigation and arrested two suspects from the Maccabi Tel Aviv fan base on Tuesday morning. The incidents highlight ongoing concerns about football-related violence in Israel and the urgent need for effective prevention and enforcement measures.