The Israeli police officer who was filmed kicking a chareidi protester during last week’s demonstration on Route 4 was questioned Thursday by the Department for Internal Police Investigations (Machash), as authorities continue examining allegations of excessive force during the protest.

The investigation was launched after widely circulated video footage appeared to show the officer kicking a protester who was lying on the ground during the demonstration.

The incident took place during a protest on Route 4 near Bnei Brak against the arrest of bnei yeshivah who failed to report for military service. As police moved to clear the roadway, clashes erupted between officers and demonstrators.

Several videos from the scene sparked widespread public criticism. In addition to the footage showing the officer kicking a protester, another video appeared to show Bnei Brak-Ramat Gan Police Station Commander Superintendent Yuval Shavit dragging a protester across the ground while tearing his clothing.

Shortly after the videos were made public, Israel Police announced that the officer seen kicking the protester had been immediately suspended from operational duty pending an internal review.

At the time, Police Commissioner Danny Levy stated that if the investigation determined that officers or commanders had acted contrary to police procedures, the department would not hesitate to deal with the matter severely, including suspending those involved from operational service.

Police said that during efforts to disperse the demonstration, officers encountered resistance and violence from protesters. According to the department, two police officers were injured and required medical treatment, while five demonstrators were arrested on suspicion of assaulting police officers and disturbing the peace.

Police also emphasized that any incidents found to be inconsistent with departmental regulations or the standards expected of officers would be thoroughly investigated and addressed through disciplinary proceedings.

The footage also prompted sharp criticism from chareidi political leaders. Shas chairman Aryeh Deri appealed to National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir, urging him to put an end to police violence against bnei Torah, while making clear that he does not support demonstrations of this nature.

With the officer now under formal investigation by Machash, the matter has moved beyond an internal disciplinary review and into a criminal investigative process. No decision has yet been announced regarding the officer, and the investigation remains ongoing.