Israel: Protests over planned judicial reform to occur nationwide July 20-22

Event

Anti-government activists plan to hold another "Night of Disruption" across Israel on July 20. Organizers have called for protests nationwide to disrupt traffic and businesses from 17:00 in Rehovot, Haifa, Tel Aviv, and Jerusalem. Additionally, organizers have called protesters to join the march from Tel Aviv to Jerusalem, which started at 20:30 on July 18 and is expected to arrive in Jerusalem on July 22. Associated protests and strikes are likely over the coming days, as Israel's legislative body, the Knesset, is set to review the judicial reform bill on July 22.

Heightened security and severe transport disruptions are likely for the duration of the protests. Clashes between activists and security forces cannot be ruled out, particularly if demonstrators are overly disruptive or ignore police orders to disperse. Police may resort to tear gas and other crowd-control measures to disperse the protesters.

Context

During previous days of disruption, protesters have attempted to block Highway 2, Ayalon Highway, and Highway 1, the main roads between Tel Aviv, Haifa, and Jerusalem, and gather at Ben Gurion International Airport (TLV). Similar attempts are possible over the coming days.

Advice

Avoid all demonstrations due to the potential for violence. Monitor local media for protest activity, as organizers may not announce plans in advance. Keep away from areas where security forces appear to be deploying. Confirm the availability of transport and allow additional time to reach destinations. Plan for increased security and localized transport disruptions near demonstrations. Heed instructions from authorities.