Criminal investigation opened into flares fired at Netanyahu’s home

Israeli authorities opened a criminal investigation on Saturday after two flares were fired at Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s private residence in Caesarea. The flares landed in the garden of the house and caused no damage or casualties. Police said Netanyahu and his family were not home at the time.

Figures across the Israeli political spectrum condemned the incident as unacceptable.

Netanyahu’s political rivals, opposition leader Yair Lapid, and National Unity Chairman Benny Gantz issued statements condemning the incident and calling for law enforcement to bring the perpetrators to justice.

President Isaac Herzog described the attack as “a very dangerous incident, which I strongly condemn. I have just spoken to the head of Shin Bet and emphasized the urgent need to investigate and charge those responsible as soon as possible. He emphasized that this represents a dangerous escalation. and noted that the investigation is being conducted with the utmost seriousness.”

“We cannot allow these flames to rise any further. I continue to warn against political violence: this is a matter of our survival.”

Last monthNetanyahu’s residence in Caesarea was hit by a Hezbollah drone; the attack caused damage to the house, but there were no casualties.