Seeking to get a firsthand look at the dire living conditions in southern Tel Aviv, MK (The Movement) Elazar Stern decided to visit the area, home to many Israelis, foreigners and illegal aliens alike. During that visit, Stern was attacked by a 27-year-old Eritrean national, who was taken into custody.

Stern, who serves as a member of the Knesset Foreign Affairs & Defense Committee, was invited by local leaders to visit the area towards better understanding the plight of community merchants and residents. Stern met with community leaders, residents, and storekeepers. At some point, the attacker approached Stern’s group and he began assaulting the MK.

“We were standing next to a building that used to be a shul. We saw a man stare at us and he then came out and struck him in the head. His kippa flew off and he then stepped on it” Yehuda Fishman, Stern’s parliamentary aide told Walla News.

“He then showed Stern his chain with a crucifix on it and left the area” Fishman added. Stern remained calm, summoned police, and continued with his business without attempting to go after his attacker.

A police unit nearby responded quickly. The suspect was taken into custody. MK Stern was not injured by the attack.

(YWN – Israel Desk, Jerusalem)