Comedy or Treason? Arab-Israeli comedian detained over hostage jokes released from custody

Stand-up comedian Nidal Badarna has been released from custody after being questioned by the police regarding social media posts that included jokes about returning hostages. The police had previously canceled two of Badarna's performances this month, citing concerns about public order.

Badarna was detained at his home on suspicion of behavior that could disturb public peace. He was handcuffed and taken to the Misgav police station, where he was questioned for several hours before being released. According to Attorney Maisana Morani from the far left organization Adalah, "The police are using the tools at their disposal in response to public pressure."

The police’s decision to question Badarna followed increased scrutiny of public statements and performances, increased in recent months. Officials emphasized that the investigation was based on maintaining public order rather than any specific criminal charges.

Badarna, a 41-year-old comedian from Haifa, is well-known for his performances both in Israel and abroad. In one of his routines, he humorously describes the challenges of being confined at home during times of conflict, joking: "As long as the children are home, let them conquer Syria, Tunisia—whatever it takes, just bring the kids back to school".

Another segment references the events of October 7, making satirical comparisons. One joke suggests that the Thai workers who were abducted might not have realized they were being kidnapped, quipping: "Who said the Thai workers were kidnapped? Maybe they just thought they were being taken to work". Badarna also posted a video on January 20, commenting on the sportswear given to female hostages upon their release, joking that the tracksuits were "probably for Pilates."

In an interview with far left outlet Haaretz, Badarna stated that during questioning, he was asked about the content of his performances and social media posts. He defended his work, saying: "I told them I am simply a comedian dealing with difficult realities, including personal loss. That is what satire is. But I also asked—why am I, as a comedian, being questioned? Why aren’t similar questions being asked of shows like Eretz Nehederet? Or is it only Arab comedians who are being scrutinized?".

On February 15, the police canceled one of Badarna’s performances scheduled at Sard Theater in Haifa, citing concerns about public order. Badarna responded to the cancellation on social media, calling it part of an ongoing campaign against Arab artists.

Following the cancellations, Adalah representatives appealed to Attorney General Gali Baharav-Miara, requesting her intervention to prevent what they described as political interference in Badarna’s work.

A subsequent performance scheduled for February 22 was also called off. In response, Badarna wrote on Facebook: "Three different venues canceled my shows, all citing licensing issues or security concerns. The message is clear—if you want to silence me, just say so directly."

Despite these setbacks, Badarna remains committed to his work, stating: "I have no intention of changing my material. Satire is meant to challenge, and it has always played a role in social change. Even if it comes at a cost, freedom of expression must be preserved in a democracy."