Honenu Attorneys Rom and Keidar; Photo credit: Honenu
Monday, August 14, 2023, 13:59 Today (Monday) the Jerusalem District Court ruled on the request by Yehiel Indor, who was seriously injured in an attack by dozens of rioting Arabs near Oz Tzion, to reduce his remand extension. At the close of the hearing, Jerusalem District Court Judge Alexander Ron ruled that Indor will remain in remand at least until tomorrow when his remand extension will come to an end. This is to allow the completion of the initial investigation. Honenu Attorneys Nati Rom and Adi Keidar represented Indor and demanded his release from remand.
During the hearing, Attorney Rom presented Indor’s medical condition, which includes severe cognitive problems and short-term memory problems. Attorney Rom cited before the court that despite his difficulties, Indor gave full testimony at his interrogation because he has nothing to hide. “This man underwent significant psychological trauma. The group of Jews of which he was a member were under immense pressure. It is not pleasant to be the only armed person in such a situation [as was Indor during the attack],” said Attorney Rom.
Yehiel Indor’s serious head injury; Photo credit: Free use
In his decision, Judge Ron stated that despite a great understanding of the claims by the injured party, the matter still stands that a man met his death, apparently from a shot fired from the injured party’s pistol. Under these circumstances, it is correct to allow the completion of the initial investigation, even if it is difficult for the suspect. Likewise, Judge Ron ruled that the claim of self-defense stands, but the investigation must still be thoroughly carried out and said that interfering with the decision of a lower court is considered exceptional: “The claim of self-defense is completely legitimate. However, beyond that there is no justification for interference by this court.”
Honenu Attorney Nati Rom stated after the hearing, “The District Court ruled that the claim of self-defense still stands. We very much hope that this has paved the way for Indor’s release by the Magistrates Court tomorrow. The psychological and physical condition of my client clearly indicates the violence that he faced. It is regrettable that he must remain even one day in remand. We hope that he will be immediately released.”
Yehiel Indor’s first appearance in court; Video credit: Honenu
Background
On Friday, August 4, shortly before the onset of Shabbat, near Oz Tzion in the Binyamin region, dozens of Arab rioters attacked a Jewish shepherd and local Jewish residents who came to his assistance. The incident began when the Jewish shepherd left Oz Tzion to graze his flock in the area between Oz Tzion and the nearby Arab town of Burqa. Several Arabs approached and threatened him. The shepherd, who felt that he was in danger, summoned other Oz Tzion residents who came to stay with him and prevent the situation from deteriorating.
Dozens of Arabs armed with clubs, fireworks, and large rocks surrounded the Oz Tzion residents. The Arabs launched fireworks directly at the residents and hurled the rocks at them from point-blank range, endangering their lives. The residents called the army and civilian security forces for help. One resident (Yehiel Indor) was hit in the head with a rock and seriously injured. With his remaining strength, he opened fire with his legally-owned personal weapon to defend his life. Several other residents were slightly injured. According to media reports, one of the Arab rioters was killed. Elisha Yered, who transported Indor to an ambulance, and Indor were detained.