02 Jul 2019 | 03:41 PM UTC
Israel: Protesters denounce police brutality in Tel Aviv and other cities July 2 /update 1
Activists protesting in Tel Aviv and other cities against police brutality July 2; heightened security presence and associated transportation disruptions likely
Event
Fewer than 100 people are blocking Azrieli intersection in Tel Aviv on Tuesday, July 2, to protest the killing of an unarmed man of Ethiopian descent by an off-duty police officer on Sunday, June 30. Local media report that dozens of protesters are also blocking Yokne'am Junction leading to Haifa. Other demonstrations were slated to begin in Petah Tikva and Ashkelon at 18:00 (local time).
Related demonstrations are likely over the coming days and weeks as the trial continues. Heightened security measures and transportation disruptions are to be expected around all protest sites. Clashes between security personnel and protesters cannot be ruled out.
Context
An off-duty police officer is accused of shooting an unarmed man of Ethiopian descent in Kiryat Haim area of Haifa on June 30. On July 1, protesters burned tires and erected barricades in Haifa. Large crowds reportedly gathered in Kiryat Haim and Kiryat Ata after the accused officer was put on house arrest. Associated rallies were reported in Kiryat Ono, Be'er Sheva, Ashkelon, Rehovot, and other cities across Israel through the evening (local time) on July 1.
Advice
Individuals in Israel are advised to monitor developments to the situation, avoid all protests and demonstrations as a precaution, and adhere to all instructions issued by the local authorities.
