An Israeli Bedouin diplomat has filed a police complaint against four security guards at the Jerusalem Central Bus Station, accusing them of using violence while detaining him. One of the security guards has also filed a police complaint, accusing the diplomat of refusing to identify himself or allow himself to be checked.
Ismael Khaldi, the first Bedouin to serve in the Israeli Foreign Ministry, claims that the four security guards threw him to the floor, with at least one of the guards placing his knee on Khaldi’s neck, making it difficult for him to breathe.
“I was injured, all dirty and covered in grime from the floor,” Khaldi said. “The entire incident was filmed on security cameras and by passersby. They can all testify that I was attacked by security guards and that I did not refuse to be checked.”
The security guards involved in the incident dispute Khaldi’s claim, however, with one of the four guards filing a police complaint against the diplomat.
Police have opened an investigation into the incident.
The Foreign Ministry released a statement expressing shock at the alleged incident, and called on police to carry out a thorough investigation.
Yossi Mizrachi, the administrator of the Jerusalem Central Bus Station, accused Khaldi of intentionally trying to ‘create a provocation’.
“The security team at the station operates according to the requirements and instructions laid out by the Israel Police, and with its approval. The security of visitors and station workers is our primary concern, especially with the current threats we face.”
“In this particular case, it appears that the visitor’s intention was to create a provocation. The guards acted in the manner they are required to, in accordance with the law and regulations.”