Israel: Anti-government protests planned in Tel Aviv and Jerusalem Jan. 14

Event

The Israel Police has announced that it will deploy a heightened security presence in Tel Aviv and Jerusalem in preparation for anti-government demonstrations planned in the cities on the evening of Jan. 14. The purpose of the protests is to denounce the new government's plans to reform the judicial system; activists assert that the reforms would weaken the country's judiciary and democracy. Tens of thousands of people will likely participate in the demonstrations.

While protest organizers have not specified exact gathering locations, traditionally popular protest sites have included prominent public squares, city centers, and government buildings. In Tel Aviv, popular protest sites include Rabin, Habima, and Dizengoff squares. In Jerusalem, demonstrations have occurred outside government ministries, near the Prime Minister's Office, and at Ha-Shabat Square. Localized transport disruptions are likely near all protests.

Given the heightened tensions between organizations like the Movement for Quality Government in Israel and some controversial officials like Itamar Ben-Gvir, who is serving as the new government's Minister of National Security, clashes between police and protesters cannot be ruled out. Such confrontations are possible if protesters are overly disruptive or fail to comply with police instructions. Clashes between protesters and Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's supporters have also occurred at demonstrations nationwide.

Advice

Avoid all announced or spontaneous protest actions due to the potential for violence. Exercise caution near likely protest 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 demonstrations. Follow all police instructions.