Shin Bet Joins Investigation Into Stone-Throwing and Threats at Israeli Newsrooms

Following a series of serious stone-throwing attacks targeting the newsrooms of Israel's Channel 12 and Haaretz, the Shin Bet security service has joined the ongoing investigation. The probe is being conducted jointly with the Crime Fighting Unit of the Dan District Police in Tel Aviv. On the night between July 27 and 28, the glass doors of Channel 12's building in Tel Aviv were smashed for the second time this month. Surveillance footage captured a masked individual throwing a stone at the entrance door and fleeing the scene. After the attack, a threatening letter was left stating, "Next time the stone will be aimed at one of your heads. Take this letter seriously because eventually someone will die."

Earlier this month, a similar incident occurred when the doors of the same building were damaged overnight by an unidentified assailant. Despite the video evidence, no suspects have been arrested so far. Channel 12 condemned the attacks, warning that "the blood of Channel 12 journalists is not forfeit" and called on the Israeli government and Communications Minister to stop inciting against the free press, which they say fuels such violent acts. The police commissioner responded by emphasizing the severity of the situation and announced an urgent discussion on the matter. He instructed the Tel Aviv district commander to deploy all operational and investigative resources to locate and arrest the perpetrator.

The Israeli Journalists Association highlighted that the repeated attacks reflect a serious deterioration in attitudes toward journalists and media outlets in Israel. They stressed that targeting journalists as enemies and legitimizing threats and intimidation leads to violence that undermines press freedom and the public’s right to reliable, critical, and independent information.