Israel: General strike and associated demonstrations planned in Arab communities May 18

Event

The Arab High Follow-Up Committee has declared a general strike and associated demonstrations in Arab communities across Israel on May 18; the strike will reportedly include all businesses and industries except for private education. Furthermore, the committee announced that it will coordinate peaceful protest activities nationwide with the assistance of local municipalities and activists. The purpose of the labor action and protests is to condemn alleged Israeli aggression against the Gaza Strip and East Jerusalem. Members of the High Follow-Up Committee are demanding an end to violence against Arabs, both in the Palestinian Territories and throughout Israel.

Strike-associated demonstrations are possible at popular protest venues, including public squares and near government buildings. Security forces will likely deploy to monitor any protests that may materialize. Clashes between authorities and protesters are possible if demonstrators ignore orders to disperse or are overly disruptive. Heightened security, as well as localized transport and business disruptions, are likely in Arab communities across Israel for the duration of the labor action.

Context

The call to strike and protest comes amid the most intense cross-border fire between Israeli and Palestinian forces in almost a decade. Gazan militants have launched over 3,000 rocket and mortar rounds toward communities in southern and central Israel, including Jerusalem and Tel Aviv, since fighting began late May 10. The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) has responded to the persistent rocket attacks with hundreds of retaliatory airstrikes against Hamas and the Palestinian Islamic Jihad (PIJ) targets in the Gaza Strip; the targets include weapons depots located inside of civilian buildings. The recent fighting began amid heightened tensions following Israel's effort to evict Palestinians from their homes in the Sheikh Jarrah neighborhood of East Jerusalem.

Advice

Avoid all strike-related protests to the potential for violence. Exercise caution near likely or possible rally locations. Monitor local media for protest activity, as organizers may not announce plans in advance. Confirm the availability of transport and allow additional time to reach destinations. Plan for increased security and localized transport disruptions near demonstration sites. Follow the instructions of all security officials.