Israel: Hundreds protest in front of Supreme Court, Jerusalem, October 14 /update 21

Event

Hundreds of anti-government protesters gathered in front of the Israeli Supreme Court in Jerusalem on Wednesday, October 14, calling for an investigation into Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's involvement in the scandal surrounding the purchase of German submarines. The protest was mainly comprised of vehicle convoys passing in front of the court, with attendees traveling from throughout Israel to take part. The protest took part following the expiration of emergency restrictions limiting protests at 00:00 on Wednesday, which was implemented as part of a nationwide lockdown to limit the spread of the coronavirus disease (COVID-19).

Further protests are likely over the near term. A heightened security presence is to be expected in the vicinity of protest sites, where a disruption to transportation and business should be anticipated.

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.