Jerusalem erupted in dramatic protests this Wednesday as demonstrators called for the release of 48 hostages still held in Gaza. The demonstrations, which drew hundreds to multiple locations including the Prime Minister’s residence, the National Library, and the Knesset, escalated into fires, barricades, and arrests.
Police reported that demonstrators set dumpsters and tires ablaze in the Rehavia and Givat Ram neighborhoods, near Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s residence, causing damage to parked vehicles. Several residents in adjacent buildings were evacuated as a precaution, though no injuries were reported.
“The right to protest does not grant the right to set property on fire or endanger public safety,” the Israel Police said, condemning the acts as crossing a “red line” and unrelated to lawful demonstration.
In a striking escalation, protesters from the “Brothers in Arms” organization were seen barricaded on the roof of the National Library of Israel, holding banners criticizing Strategic Affairs Minister Ron Dermer. One banner read: “48 hostages, Dermer 0,” a reference to the perceived inaction in securing the hostages’ release.
