Professor Accused of Planning Attacks Requested House Arrest

Nature of the Charges

According to the prosecution’s account, the approximately 60-year-old Petah Tikva resident formulated, from February 2023 until his arrest, a detailed plan for simultaneous attacks in mixed cities, Arab and Bedouin communities, East Jerusalem and the territories of the Palestinian Authority. Under the plan, 72 participants, including the defendant himself, were to be recruited and divided into 12 groups. According to the indictment, its aim was to murder hundreds of people and force the Arab population to flee Israel.

Preparatory Acts Attributed to Him

The prosecution claims that the professor prepared documents and instructions, conducted a preliminary reconnaissance in the area of Tuba-Zangariyye and unsuccessfully sought supporters for about a year and a half. At meetings, he allegedly concealed his face with a mask, wore a hat and sunglasses, introduced himself as “Menachem” or “Menachem Livneh,” and used passersby’s phones. The plan also included an attempt to recruit soldiers and obtain assistance from the Air Force, artillery and armored units.

The Request for House Arrest

The Central District Attorney’s Office requested that the defendant remain in custody until the conclusion of the proceedings. The defense insisted that he be transferred to house arrest and argued that he was not dangerous; the professor himself spoke about work, examinations and financial matters. The source does not report whether the court granted the request and does not specify the statutory provisions on which the charges or the detention request are based.

Publication Ban on the Name

At the hearing in the Lod District Court, the defense also requested an extension of the ban on publishing the defendant’s name, citing possible international harm to Israel and repercussions for his family in Australia. The judge extended the ban until October 7 at 12:00. Bar-Ilan University announced that the lecturer would be suspended immediately until the conclusion of the legal proceedings.

The Matter Involving Moshe Feiglin

According to the article, the defendant tried to convey a summary of the plan to Moshe Feiglin, but Feiglin did not respond to the approaches. The professor later allegedly sent him a letter threatening to publish critical materials if Feiglin did not assist. The “Zehut” party stated that Feiglin and the party leadership immediately contacted the police.

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