New details have emerged regarding the explosion in Yarkon Park in September 2023: The Israeli Police announced today (Wednesday) that an Iranian-made "Claymore" explosive device was the one that detonated in Yarkon Park in Tel Aviv, in an attempt to assassinate former IDF Chief of Staff and Defense Minister Moshe "Bogie" Ya'alon. A few hours after the explosion, two suspects were arrested with camouflage materials and weapons in their possession.
Video: Explosive device detonated in September 2023, in Yarkon Park.
The detainees revealed that, prior to the explosion, they had smuggled a bag containing explosives, weapons, explosive materials, and drugs with a Hezbollah operative. During the investigation, more individuals involved were identified, each with their own role. Some transferred the bags, while others hid them.
The suspect who planted the bomb in Yarkon Park acted under the direction of the Hezbollah operative. A vehicle with a dashcam was present at the scene, recording the route Ya'alon was supposed to take, and the explosive was intended to target him. However, the device likely exploded due to an early malfunction.
Undercover detectives tracked down the suspects using intelligence. Initially, the suspects remained silent during questioning, but with the assistance of the Shin Bet and particularly the interrogation unit of Tel Aviv's YMR, the suspects eventually spoke and shed light on the incident.
"Among the Israeli suspects, some of whom were cooks and laborers, there was no clear connection between them. They were activated by a Hezbollah agent from southern Lebanon, a former Israeli resident who exploited prior acquaintances with some of them. Some were paid, and several had criminal records."
The members of the cell were aware they were being directed by a Hezbollah agent. There is no known link between the bomb explosion incident and the events of October 7.
Commander Elazar Rozalio of Tel Aviv's YAMAR stated: "This was an intensive investigation that concluded with the filing of indictments in October. Nine suspects were involved, leading to eight indictments for aiding terrorism and connection to a hostile entity. The ninth suspect is a Hezbollah operative connected to local individuals."
