Police are expected to request an extension of the detention of Israeli-Arab activist Yoseph Haddad after the Tel Aviv Magistrate Court ruled he spend five days under house arrest.
Haddad was detained for questioning last week after a bullet was fired from his weapon during an argument on a public street in Jaffa. He faces two charges: Unlawful use of a firearm and making threatening remarks.
It is suspected that Haddad drew his gun, fired it from his vehicle, and the bullet likely struck close to his car. Police rejected the possibility that it was an accidental discharge, claiming it was a deliberate action, not a mistake.
Last Thursday, it was revealed that the case was transferred to the Tel Aviv District Prosecutor's Office, but a final decision has not yet been made on whether to file an indictment or return the case for further investigation.
The motorcyclist involved in the altercation, who was also questioned for assault, was released without any restrictions. After nine hours of questioning, Haddad was placed under house arrest for five days.
Different versions of the incident
During his questioning, Haddad claimed the incident occurred around 2 p.m. after the motorcyclist cut him off on the road, recognized him, blocked his way, and began cursing, spitting on him, and threatening his life. "This was not a fight; this was assault. He cursed, spat, and threatened to kill me," Haddad told investigators. He further claimed the man also yelled "spy" and "I will kill you."
According to Haddad, the entire incident took place while he was sitting in his vehicle. "He tried to open the door and physically attacked me. I drew my gun when I felt my life was in immediate danger," he testified. He added that at that moment, he cocked the gun, leaned back, and during the attack, a bullet was discharged that hit a nearby wall without injuring anyone.
On the other hand, the motorcyclist claimed in his investigation that it was Haddad who cut him off on the road and initiated the confrontation. The police are not commenting on whether it was an accidental discharge, and the investigation continues.
Upon leaving the police station, both Haddad and the motorcyclist received support from the public. The motorcyclist was applauded, while Haddad received cheers from a megaphone.
"Although this is not an advocacy video as usual, it's purely to thank you for all your concern and the endless love I've received from you since yesterday," Haddad said in the first video he posted since the incident. "Thank you to my dear family and everyone who came from outside the police station."
"I must say to all the crowds sending me messages and supporting me on social media, I’ve heard you, and it strengthens me greatly. Right now, I am not allowed to comment on what is happening because everything is still under investigation, but I can promise you that nothing and no one will stop me. I will continue to work for our country and for our heroic soldiers. Am Yisrael Chai," he added.