Yair Golan Requests Increased Security Amid Rising Death Threats

Yair Golan, chairman of the Democratic Party in Israel, has formally requested enhanced personal security from Noam Solberg, Deputy Supreme Court President, and David Zini, head of the Shin Bet, following a surge in threatening messages against him. These threats, posted on social media, include violent language and calls for his assassination, with some messages explicitly targeting Golan and his family. The party reported that the police have raised the threat assessment level for Golan to level 4, prompting demands for official security measures.

The threats came in response to various posts, including one by Sharon Gal and a video about an Indonesian refusing service to Israelis, which provoked hostile comments. One user wrote, "Yair Golan is yours until the grave soon. May your name be erased," while another threatened physical harm to Golan and his family, accusing him of betrayal and inciting violence.

This security request follows a recent appeal by Ron Barkai, head of the Yisrael! party, who sought protection for Gadi Eizenkot, a prominent candidate expected to challenge Prime Minister Netanyahu. Barkai's letter, sent after an unanswered July 20 request, highlighted that Eizenkot's current security is limited to an unarmed private company hired by his party, lacking official intelligence-based protection. Despite repeated requests, the Shin Bet reportedly decided not to provide official security for Eizenkot.

The Democratic Party emphasized the seriousness of the threats and the need for immediate security arrangements for Golan. The situation reflects heightened tensions ahead of upcoming elections and concerns over political violence in Israel.