High Court of Justice clears publication of Border Police officer's name in fatal shooting case

The High Court of Justice has authorized the naming of Border Police officer Hananel Sabag, who faces charges of reckless homicide in the fatal shooting of his friend, IDF soldier Yosef Chaim Rabuch. The incident occurred outside Rabuch's home in Kiryat Arba in October 2025.

The indictment, filed by the Police Internal Investigations Department, also includes charges of negligence involving a firearm and unlawful weapon possession. Sabag's appeal against the publication of his name was rejected by the High Court on Sunday, clearing the way for his identity to be released in relation to the charges.

Reports from the time of the incident suggest the shooting was accidental. Sabag and Rabuch were reportedly close friends preparing to go out together. While attempting to demonstrate something with his gun, Sabag allegedly discharged it accidentally, fatally wounding Rabuch. The soldier was taken to the hospital but died from his injuries.