Israel: Authorities likely to maintain heightened security at Beit Lid and Sde Teiman bases after protesters briefly storm facilities July 29

Authorities will almost certainly maintain a heightened security presence around the Beit Lid and Sde Teiman military bases, located near Natanya and Be'er Sheva, respectively, after protesters reportedly stormed both facilities July 29. The purpose of the protest activity is to show support for at least nine military reservists who Israeli military police have detained for questioning in connection with an investigation into the alleged mistreatment of a Palestinian prisoner. Security forces clashed with the demonstrators in both locations as they attempted to restore order. Police asserted that they had dispersed the protesters at the Beit Lid base "within a matter of minutes," and security forces had also cleared protesters out of the Sde Teiman base by late afternoon. Officials did not immediately confirm the precise number of people who participated in the protests, nor the number of those who were arrested. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, speaking with regard to the protest activity at the Sde Teiman base, has called for "an immediate calming of passions."

Further protest activity cannot be ruled out over the coming hours. Transport disruptions may affect areas subject to heightened security, protest activity, and clashes.