Updated on 8 July 2019
The Situation:
Reported incidents of police brutality have sparked demonstrations/riots over the past
week and a half in northern and central Israel. Notably in Haifa, Tel Aviv and surrounding
areas, including within close proximity to Ben Gurion Airport, Kiryat Haim, Kiryat Ata,
Kiryat Ono, Be'er Sheva, Ashkelon, Rehovot, Yavne and Rishon Lezion.
Several of the demonstrations quickly erupted into dangerous riots, which included a
vehicle arson attack, the burning of a Tel Aviv building, and the burning of tires in major
roadways in and around Tel Aviv and outside a Haifa police department. Rioters have also
reportedly thrown Molotov cocktails and rocks at police officers.
Major roadways have been blocked by large crowds, including the Azrieli intersection in
Tel Aviv due to a vehicle arson attack. Demonstrators have also reportedly attempted
blocking routes to the Ben Gurion Airport.
More than 100 police have been injured, over 100 civilians have been arrested and there
have been reports of teargas and rubber bullets being fired as crowd dispersal methods,
leaving several with injuries.
Ongoing demonstrations are expected throughout the week.
Depicted below in the maps are the locations where demonstrations (yellow runner) have
been reported in Northern and Central Israel as well as reported arson attacks (orange
fire)
Possible Effects:
Blocked roads due to protests/riots
Extreme traffic delays (can last several hours)
Potential arson attacks
Property/structural damage
Increased presence of law enforcement and military – use of teargas and rubber bullets possible
Increase in outbreaks of violence in bigger cities
Increased traffic, especially near city centers and government buildings
Protests and demonstrations, which may flare in the evenings and after Friday prayers
Mitigating Factors to Apply:
Avoid all protests and large crowds, which have the possibility of turning violent
Allow extra time for travel
Avoid traveling through city centers, utilizing bypasses where available
Follow directions of local law enforcement and IDF (military troops)
If you are caught in a blockade:
Remain calm
Do not exit your vehicle
Call the authorities: Emergency Services – 100
Monitor local and social media for updates
Enroll in the Safe Traveler program (STEP) to receive warnings from the U.S. Embassy
DISCLAIMER and Hold Harmless
Disclaimer: LSDS gathers information from multiple sources and offers insight and perspective to travelers. Sources cannot be validated for accuracy in every instance. Travelers assume all risk associated with their travel and are responsible for the decisions associated with travel and for their own safety. Users of this reference document agree, to hold harmless LSDS (LLC) its employees and clients associated with any risk or injury incurred during travel.
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