Teen Detained Twice After Stabbing Cellmate Over Water Dispute at Israeli Courthouse

On August 11, a 17-year-old detainee at the Nazareth courthouse stabbed his cellmate multiple times with a piece of ceramic during a dispute over who should get water first. The victim was handcuffed at the time and awaiting a court hearing. The attack involved stabs to the head, neck, abdomen, and ribs, and was described by police as potentially fatal.

The assailant had initially been released after his own court hearing but was rearrested hours later when the stabbing came to light. Police officers from the Emek region and the Nachshon unit of the Israel Prison Service responded to the incident, questioned the victim, and transferred him to the hospital for treatment and stitches.

The suspect admitted during interrogation that the argument escalated, leading him to grab a ceramic shard and attack his cellmate. Police are seeking to keep the teenager in custody throughout the legal process, labeling him as very dangerous. The defense attorney stated the minor acted out of fear and self-defense and plans to request his release under conditions. The suspect is charged with aggravated assault.