Woman suspected of throwing sand at Ben-Gvir released from detention

Dozens of protesters gathered outside the Tel Aviv courthouse where 27-year-old Noa Goldenberg, a Tel Aviv resident, appeared for a hearing regarding the extension of her detention after allegedly throwing sand at National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir on a beach in Tel Aviv.

The court ordered her release to house arrest for 48 hours, with a restraining order prohibiting her from contacting Ben-Gvir for 30 days. Goldenberg spent the previous night in Neve Tirza Women’s Prison in Ramle.

Her mother, Sharon Goldenberg, expressed relief at the court’s decision but called her arrest unjustified. “I’m glad this absurd situation is finally over. I hope there won’t be more arrests under such ridiculous circumstances, and that the country will regain some sense. I’m sure she’ll gladly comply with the restraining order against Ben-Gvir,” Sharon said. Later, in a post on X, she thanked activists who supported her daughter, adding that “Justice prevailed; there was no justification for this arrest.”

During the hearing, Judge Menachem (Mario) Klein ruled that Noa Goldenberg’s arrest and subsequent detention were unnecessary and approved her release on bail. Outside the courtroom, protesters rallied, and some threw sand on pictures of Ben-Gvir in solidarity with Noa.

The incident occurred at Geula Beach, where Ben-Gvir was visiting with his family. According to reports, Noa threw sand at him following a verbal confrontation between beachgoers and the minister. She was then arrested by the police on suspicion of assaulting a public servant and disturbing the peace.

Police have emphasized the seriousness of the incident, stating that they are “taking the offense of assaulting a public servant extremely seriously” and are working to ensure justice is served. However, Noa’s supporters and family have condemned the arrest as politically motivated.

Beach confrontation causes controversy

The confrontation between Goldenberg and Ben-Gvir has sparked controversy, with many seeing her arrest as an overreaction, particularly among activists and opposition figures. Outside the courtroom, dozens of protesters voiced their support, arguing that her actions, though provocative, did not warrant detention.

Ben-Gvir, a divisive figure in Israeli politics, has frequently drawn criticism for his hardline stances. The incident on the beach occurred during a tense political climate, as Ben-Gvir has been a key player in ongoing negotiations and debates related to national security. His opponents claim that the incident has been used to draw attention away from larger political issues.

Police emphasized the importance of protecting public officials.  However, Sharon Goldenberg said in a statement that the arrest was excessive, noting that her daughter has no criminal record and poses no threat. She called the proceedings a “farce” and thanked the many activists who supported her during the ordeal.

Noa’s legal team continues to argue that the charges are politically motivated, and they are preparing for further hearings on the matter.