Yaakov Teital, dubbed in Israel as the “Jewish terrorist” was convicted by the Jerusalem District Court on Wednesday, 5 Shevat 5773 in the murders of two Arab men. The Shvut Rachel resident was also found guilty for attacks perpetrated of prominent left-wing Israelis and other acts of violence. The court rejected a temporary insanity plea from the defense counsel.

Teital was convicted of murdering taxi driver Samir Belivisi in Jerusalem and Issa Jabrin in the Southern Hebron Hills, near Sussia 15 years ago. He was also convicted of attempted murder for sending a bomb in misloach manos to the Ortiz family in Ariel. The family is connected to Jews for J. A family member was seriously injured in that bomb attack. Teital was also convicted of placing a bomb at the entrance of the home of Prof. Ze’ev Shternhill, an outspoken member of the left-wing community and Israel Prize recipient.

Teital told the court he does not recognize its jurisdiction in the case and that he only answers to the Beis Din Shel Ma’alo. “This house of znus has no jurisdiction over me. I only accept a din Torah. Hashem is the king” he exclaimed before the court.

Sentencing is set for February 13, 2013.

(YWN – Israel Desk, Jerusalem)