26 Mar 2024 | 10:27 AM UTC
Israel, PT: Land Day protests likely to occur throughout Palestinian Territories and parts of Israel March 30
Land Day protests likely to occur in West Bank and majority-Arab areas of Israel, March 30. Avoid all demonstrations.
Heightened tensions and increased security measures are likely in Israel and the West Bank as Palestinians and Israeli Arabs commemorate "Land Day" on March 30. The risk of civil unrest and associated clashes, in addition to opportunistic militant attacks, is likely to be compounded by the ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict. Demonstrations are likely in the West Bank, particularly in Ramallah, Hebron, Jenin, Nablus, Bethlehem, Jericho, Qalqilya, and Tulkarm. Protests are also expected in East Jerusalem, especially near the Old City. Other gatherings may occur along the separation barrier between the West Bank and Israel. Demonstrations could also occur in Israeli cities with large communities of Israeli-Arabs, particularly in Jerusalem, Jaffa, Nazareth, and Rahat. Associated unrest is also possible on March 29 following Friday prayers.
Israeli authorities will likely increase security, including establishing checkpoints and roadblocks. Increased security measures will likely prompt transport and business disruptions. Clashes are likely, mainly if police use force to disperse crowds or Israeli settlers in the West Bank attempt to disrupt rallies. Authorities may use water cannons, tear gas, rubber bullets, or live ammunition to disperse unruly crowds or enforce no-go zones.
Avoid all demonstrations. Consider minimizing travel in the West Bank and predominantly Arab areas in Israel on March 29 and 30. Seek updated information on security conditions before driving or routing shipments through areas where protests could occur. Immediately leave the area, and seek shelter in a secure, nongovernmental building if violence erupts nearby.
Land Day is an annual event during which Palestinians and Israeli Arabs commemorate the 1976 demonstrations and strikes against the Israeli government's expropriation of large tracts of land. In the clashes that ensued between protesters and Israeli police, six people died. Land Day rallies are typically confined to Arab communities; however, some have expanded to other areas, resulting in clashes between Arabs and Israeli security forces.
