Palestinian Suspect Who Spat on IDF Officer Turns Himself In, Faces Charges in Israel

A 24-year-old Palestinian man from the West Bank town of Huwara spat on an Israeli reserve officer, Capt. Tamar Galliduani, aboard a bus in Ramat Gan, prompting widespread condemnation and a police search. The soldier described the attack as a serious assault on her and the IDF uniform, emphasizing the need for accountability and deterrence. Initially, confusion arose over the suspect's surrender, with reports claiming he turned himself in to the Palestinian Authority; however, Israeli police later confirmed he surrendered directly to Israeli security forces and is undergoing questioning. National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir expressed zero tolerance for attacks on IDF soldiers following the arrest. The incident highlighted tensions and the challenges in law enforcement cooperation between Israeli and Palestinian authorities, with West Bank District Commander Moshe Pinchi warning the suspect to surrender before being apprehended by police. The case remains under investigation, with authorities seeking to extend the suspect's detention and pursue charges for assault and illegal presence in Israel.