29 Sep 2018 | 01:32 PM UTC
Israel/Palestinian Terr.: Palestinian general strike planned October 1 /update 2
Palestinians plan a general strike across Israel and Palestinian Territories on October 1 over nation-state law; associated disruptions expected
Event
Palestinians have planned a general strike on Monday, October 1, across the West Bank, Gaza Strip, and Israel to denounce the "nation-state" law passed by Israeli Knesset in July. Disruptions to business operations and public services (e.g. public transportation) are to be expected. Clashes between protesters and security forces cannot be ruled out.
Context
On July 19, the Knesset passed the Basic Law, part of Israel's de facto constitution, which, among other things, declares Israel as the nation-state of the Jewish people and makes Hebrew the official language, downgrading Arabic to a "special status" language. Opponents to the law argue that it omits principles of equal rights and democracy for the country's one-fifth Arab minority.
Advice
Individuals in Israel and Palestinian Territories are advised to monitor developments to the situation, avoid all protests and demonstrations due to the risk of violence, and anticipate related disruptions. Some Western governments advise their citizens against all travel to the West Bank, the Gaza Strip, and areas near the Israeli-Lebanese, Israeli-Syrian, and Israeli-Egyptian borders.
