PT: Protests likely across the West Bank and possibly Gaza in support of Palestinian prisoners the evening of Sept. 8

Event

Palestinian activists have called for demonstrations across the West Bank the evening of Sept. 8 in solidarity with incarcerated Palestinians who have been rioting in Israeli prisons. Related demonstrations may also occur in Gaza. Earlier in the day, inmates affiliated with the Palestinian Islamic Jihad (PIJ) militant group clashed with prison guards and set fire to seven cells at Ktzi'ot Prison in the Negev desert; similar unrest was also reported at other penitentiaries across Israel.

Demonstrations are likely to materialize around popular protest sites, including public squares, city centers, and government buildings. Protests are particularly likely at Martyr's Square in Nablus, Manarah Square in Ramallah, and the al-Aqsa mosque in Jerusalem. Activists may also gather at other sensitive locations, including near Israeli settlements, military checkpoints, Israeli prisons, and territorial border areas.

Increased security deployments are likely throughout Palestinian villages and Israeli settlements in the West Bank. Clashes are possible if protesters are overly disruptive or fail to adhere to the instructions of security personnel. Israeli security forces typically respond aggressively to perceived threats and have employed riot-control measures and occasionally fired warning shots or live ammunition during similar actions. Localized ground transportation disruptions are likely near all affected sites.

Advice

Avoid all announced or proposed protest actions due to the potential for violence. Exercise caution near likely protest locations. Minimize exposure to places of worship, security installations, markets, and other crowded locations. Monitor local media for protest activity, as organizers may not announce plans in advance. Consider deferring nonessential travel to the West Bank and Gaza Strip for the duration of the protests. Confirm the availability of transport and allow additional time to reach destinations. Plan for increased security and localized transport disruptions near demonstrations. Follow all police instructions.