Minister: Another political murder possible

During Knesset debate on 'price tag' acts, internal security minister says fear of political assassination applies to 'entire political spectrum'

Moran Azulay|Published: 11.23.11 , 14:45

Internal Security Minister Yitzhak Aharonovitch told the Knesset on Wednesday he fears another political assassination in Israel, 16 years after prime minister Yitzhak Rabin was shot to death by extreme-rightist Yigal Amir.

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Asked about the series of hate crimes against leftists and Arabs– dubbed 'price tag' acts - the minister said political assassins can come from all ends of the political spectrum.

Knesset Member Isaac Herzog (Labor) asked during the debate whether - in light of the 'recent price tag' acts against Peace Now – there was any real danger of another political murder. In response, Aharonovitch said Israel Police has tasked a special unit with eradicating the hate crimes, adding that a special investigative team was set up for this purpose as well.

The minister said police have arrested a man who is suspected of being involved in the torching of a mosque last month. He said police were also investigating a recent incident in which slogans were spray-painted in the apartment building of a Peace Now activist in Jerusalem.

"As for the possibility of another political murder – the fear exists. It is my job to be concerned. (Police) and the Shin Bet (internal security service) must remain vigilant. This fear applies to the entire political spectrum," he said.