Israeli police arrest man who threatened to assassinate Netanyahu ahead of the Jewish New Year

The Israeli police announced on Thursday that they had arrested a man in his forties from the southern town of Kiryat Gat, after he voluntarily entered the local police station and informed the officers of his intention to assassinate Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.

The police explained that the suspect stated he planned to buy a firearm and shoot Netanyahu three times, prompting them to immediately detain him and open an urgent investigation into the matter.

According to an official statement, an indictment against the man is expected to be presented on the same day, with a request to extend his detention until the legal proceedings are completed, amid assurances from the authorities that they are taking any threats against Israeli officials very seriously.

This development comes at a time when Netanyahu is facing increasing internal pressure, as polls indicate a decline in his popularity against the backdrop of the ongoing war in Gaza for nearly two years against Hamas, which has raised concerns about growing Israeli isolation on the international stage.

Families of 48 hostages held in Gaza, believed to be 20 of whom are still alive, continue to pressure the government to reach a deal that would lead to their release.