A man was arrested in White Plains, New York, after driving through the streets in a car covered in swastikas, a Palestinian flag, and pro-Hamas messages just blocks away from a planned pro-Israel rally. Hani Saleh, 47, was apprehended by police after his Volkswagen was pulled over. The vehicle had a Palestinian flag displayed on top and its license plate had been illegally altered. Additionally, the windshield was obstructed with writing. Upon further investigation, authorities discovered a forged license plate, a .40-caliber handgun, and several Arizona license plates inside the vehicle. Saleh was booked and processed for criminal possession of a forged instrument and criminal possession of a weapon.
The car driven by Saleh also had anti-Israel messages written in red and white paint, accusing the country of “genocide” and the murders of thousands of Palestinians. One message referred to the “Holocaust in Gaza by the new [Nazis] USA + Israel.” Saleh was arrested just two blocks away from the site of a pro-Israel rally scheduled for later that evening. The vehicle also featured an American flag with “ISIS” written above it and a swastika interlaced with the Star of David.
An ongoing investigation is being conducted by local law enforcement in collaboration with federal agencies. Saleh has been arraigned and is currently in custody at the Westchester County Jail. He is scheduled to appear in court on November 2.
This incident highlights the concerning display of anti-Israel sentiment and the presence of illegal weapons. Authorities are working diligently to ensure the safety and security of the community.
