JERUSALEM (AP) – Ultra-Orthodox Jews attacked an unmarked Israeli police vehicle overnight, stoned it and smashed windows while officers were inside, and set off a riot in which they were arrested. at least six people, police said Friday.
Violence erupted in Bnei Brak, an ultra-Orthodox city near Tel Aviv. Tensions have risen between police and the ultra-Orthodox community in Israel throughout the coronavirus pandemic, as many have openly defied blockade restrictions on holding religious gatherings. Police seeking to break up weddings, funerals and other gatherings have often faced violent crowds.
The latest violence began when the Bnei Brak crowd threw stones at the police vehicle, smashing the windows and puncturing the tires. Officers inside called for a backup, and when reinforcements arrived, the crowd blocked roads and burned tires.
“Police continue to disperse a violent and savage riot in Bnei Brak, during which stones were thrown at police officers and tires were set on fire in the center of the city’s main thoroughfares,” police said in a statement. early friday.
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu condemned the violence and vowed to act with a “heavy hand” against anyone who breaks the law or attacks the police.
Israel has reported more than 580,000 cases and 4,245 deaths since the start of the pandemic, and is currently in its third national closure, with most schools and businesses closed.
Israel has launched one of the fastest vaccination campaigns in the world, with more than 20% of its population of more than 9 million already receiving a first dose. But the arrival of highly contagious strains of the virus has maintained a high number of cases.
Israel has more than 80,000 active cases, including hundreds of people in critical condition. Recently, authorities extended the closure until the end of the month.