What it is about
The State Attorney’s Office issued a rare clarification regarding a police investigation into the alleged killing of a Palestinian terrorist by an Israeli citizen during the Hamas invasion on October 7. The suspects, named Sahar Ofir and Yisrael Biton, have come forward denying the allegations.
Why it matters
This is significant due to the intense scrutiny and erroneous information that led to severe incitement against officials from the State Attorney’s Office and the police. The clarification aims to remedy misinformation and provide transparent updates on the ongoing investigations.
The Big Picture
After Ofir and Biton were questioned for reportedly stolen firearms, a video surfaced showing Biton beating a Palestinian man in his vehicle. Although the man’s body has not been found, forensic tests implied that he had been killed. Ofir allegedly confessed in written statements to killing several terrorists and committing severe acts of violence against captured terrorists.
State’s Actions
The Tel Aviv Magistrate’s Court granted search and arrest warrants against Biton and others on suspicions of murder. However, Biton was mainly indicted for stealing weapons from a special forces officer killed during the massacre. Ofir was questioned after illegal firearms were found in his home but is no longer a murder suspect.
Background
On October 7, approximately 3,000 Hamas militants invaded Israel, killing around 1,200 people and taking 251 hostages. As reports unfolded, Ofir, Biton, and a third suspect journeyed to the conflict zones to assist in defending against the attack.
The Fallout
Ofir, a 22-year-old former combat soldier, and Biton, a United Hatzalah volunteer, both denied killing a captured terrorist. Ofir stated that he felt criminalized unjustly despite his efforts to assist during the assault, while Biton recounted transporting a suspicious, injured terrorist to security forces without causing his death.
Response from Officials
National Unity Chair Benny Gantz and National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir have weighed in on the matter. Gantz declared that every Gazan who crossed the border on October 7 faces lethal consequences and emphasized support for those who fought during the invasion. Ben Gvir expressed strong defensive sentiments towards the indicted suspects, criticizing state prosecutor Amit Aisman.
Conclusion
This case has attracted broader legislative attention and public support for the suspects, catalyzing rallies and raising crucial discussions on the interpretation and conduct of wartime actions and judicial processes in Israel.
This story was first published on timesofisrael.com.