Israel: Anti-government protesters gather nationwide October 8 /update 19

Event

Protesters gathered nationwide on Thursday, October 8, in opposition to the government of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. Hundreds of protesters gathered at Tel Aviv's Rabin Square, Habima Square, Ben-Zion, Hashmoniam, and the Jaffa Clock Tower. Demonstrators also protested at the Bar Ilan Bridge, where one protester was injured by pepper spray. The "Black Flag" movement has called for further large-scale anti-government gatherings on Saturday, October 10. The protests come despite the extension of measures to address the spread of the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) which includes restricting gatherings to 20 people, with the exception of those being held outside of the Prime Minister's residence in Jerusalem, and the requirement that people only attend protests being held no more than 1km (0.6mi) from their residences.

Anti-government demonstrations are likely to continue across the country in the near term. A heightened security presence and localized disruptions to transport are expected in the vicinity of any protests.

Context

Protests have been reported throughout Israel in recent months over the government's handling of the COVID-19 pandemic. Anger over the issue has been compounded by pre-existing anti-Netanyahu sentiment, with the Prime Minister facing three criminal cases over alleged corruption.

Advice

Those in Israel are advised to monitor developments, avoid protests as a precaution, and adhere to all instructions issued by the local authorities.