Right-Wing Activist Mordechai David Summoned for Police Investigation After Lod Clashes

Right-wing activist Mordechai David was summoned for questioning by Israeli police on Monday following his arrival in the mixed city of Lod the previous day. David participated in an event he termed a "sovereignty tour" in the city's mixed neighborhoods, accompanied by young Jewish men. The event concluded with violent clashes between Jewish and Arab residents, resulting in injuries and the arrest of 11 individuals. Police confirmed that David and fellow activist Ziv Barans were called in for investigation due to their involvement in the events.

The clashes erupted after a group of right-wing activists arrived in Lod, reportedly responding to claims of violence against Jews over the weekend. David documented his arrival in a video posted to Instagram, stating his intention to conduct a "sovereignty tour" in Arab neighborhoods to demonstrate presence. However, the group's arrival drew criticism from local residents and officials.

According to Lod Mayor Yair Rabivo, the group, which came from outside the city, aimed to inflame tensions. He stated they publicized their activity on social media, attracting about 20 local youths. After police dispersed the external group, some local youths returned home agitated, shouting insults near Arab residents' homes. This led to Arab residents taking to the streets, escalating into violent confrontations.

Police intervened to restore order, arresting or detaining 11 people, including Jews and Arabs, for public order disturbances and disobeying officers. The detainees, some of whom were minors and a woman, were later released. While David is not suspected of direct participation in the fighting, police summoned him for questioning regarding his conduct and presence during the gathering that heightened tensions, emphasizing that those who incite the atmosphere may be held accountable.

Mayor Rabivo strongly condemned the events, calling the evening tense and dangerous, highlighting the fragility of peace between the city's populations. He stressed that provocative actions, racist calls, or vigilantism are unacceptable, as is violence, threats, or the carrying of bladed weapons by Arab residents. Rabivo spoke with senior police officials, including the Police Commissioner, and Jewish and Arab community leaders to prevent further escalation. He also updated the head of the Shin Bet on the situation and concerns about further security deterioration, requesting appropriate preparedness. The mayor recalled the severe Jewish-Arab clashes in Lod during May 2021's "Guardian of the Walls" operation, expressing determination to prevent extremist elements from jeopardizing the relative peace achieved since then. He affirmed that while Jewish residents' security concerns in mixed neighborhoods must be addressed, the solution lies with law enforcement, not provocations.