Negev Motorcycle Convoy Waving Green Flags Sparks Panic and Police Crackdown
A motorcycle convoy waving green flags on Negev roads sparked panic among drivers fearing a security breach. Police intercepted the riders, arresting one fleeing suspect.
A disturbing video circulated on social media, sparking panic among Negev residents as a convoy of motorcycles and scooters raced across southern roads. Some riders waved green flags associated with the Islamic Movement and Ra'am, occupying entire lanes and driving recklessly, which alarmed motorists who mistook the scenes for a security breach reminiscent of the October 7 events.
Public Outrage and Political Reactions
Right-wing activist Yigal Malka was among the first to publish the footage, initially claiming drivers found themselves in the middle of a convoy carrying Hamas flags, though he later clarified it was part of a Ra'am election campaign. Former MK Moshe Feiglin harshly criticized the incident, stating that Jewish drivers trembled in fear, believing the Nukhba force was raiding the south again. National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir also addressed the footage, noting that the motorcyclists drove illegally and frightened residents.
The security forces stopped their celebration, operated, made arrests, issued fines, and delivered a clear message – think twice next time.
Police Intervention and Arrests
Simultaneously, police received reports of the reckless convoy moving from the Negev Junction toward the north. Fighters from the Yoav Unit rushed to the area and set up a blockade near the Ohalim Junction. When encountering the checkpoint, some riders attempted to flee off-road. One rider lost control of his scooter, overturned, and was arrested by Yoav Unit fighters. Upon inspection, it was discovered that he was driving without a license or insurance and failed to obey police instructions.
Some riders were filmed carrying delivery bags belonging to Wolt. The company stated that it has no connection to the political event, adding that an initial check of the bag numbers shown in the footage indicates they were reported stolen. Meanwhile, police reported that over 1,000 traffic fines were issued in the southern district over the past week as part of enforcement against road bullying.
