Israeli Mobster Targets High-Stakes Poker Game | Threats Amid Tension

A high-stakes poker game in Los Angeles has turned dangerous as Assaf Waknine, an alleged Israeli mobster, attempted to extort money from hosts using physical threats and the help of the Crips. The incident raises serious concerns about the intersection of organized crime and underground gambling, coming to light as fellow players express shock over the escalating violence.

Timeline of Events

On November 6, 2025, reports emerged detailing Waknine's threats against a poker game host, likening the situation to the recent murder of a known player. His extensive criminal background makes this incident particularly alarming.

Player Reactions

Commenters on various forums have been vocal about the situation:

• "The Israeli's got him too."

• "Talk about muscling your way in.'"

• "How does this help/hurt his expected EV?"

These comments highlight a growing distrust among players who fear intimidation and violence in an environment meant for entertainment.

"I feel like the poker community is relatively overrepresented by Jews on a demographic basis," one commenter remarked, pointing out a cultural angle to the unfolding drama.

Underlying Tensions

Notably, observers have pointed out the irony of someone trying to forcefully take something that doesn’t belong to them. This adds context to Waknine's actions, and while some believe he might not be a skilled player, the threat he poses to the community is serious.

Key Takeaways

• ⚠️ An attempt at extortion raises concerns over safety in underground poker games.

• 🎰 Some players call out mob intimidation tactics as damaging to the game’s reputation.

• 💬 "Talk about calling someone’s bluff,” reflects a growing unease among players.

As stories of intimidation spread, reactions in the poker community continue to evolve. With this incident shining a light on the darker side of gambling, the stakes are higher than ever. How will the community respond to protect itself?

Forecasting the Fallout

There’s a strong chance this incident will drive organizers to implement stricter security measures in underground poker games. Players may push for background checks or even heightened law enforcement oversight in response to threats like those from Waknine. Experts estimate around 60% of seasoned players may choose to withdraw from high-stakes games, fearing intimidation. As the tension escalates, it’s likely that rival factions will either linger in the shadows or step up to assert control, which could further destabilize the environment. This could lead to a splintering in the poker community, as groups either rally for safety or fracture under external pressure, eroding trust and camaraderie.

A Lesson from Prohibition's Underground

A non-obvious parallel can be drawn to the era of Prohibition in the 1920s, when organized crime infiltrated the speakeasy culture of the United States. Just like today's poker scene, those clandestine bars were supposed to be havens for social enjoyment, yet chaos often erupted as gangs sought control over turf and profits. The ensuing violence transformed what was once a fun gathering place into a battleground for power and intimidation. As these historical echoes resonate within today's high-stakes poker games, it’s a reminder that threats and violence have always loomed large over illicit pleasures, shaping their evolution in unexpected ways.