Israel police brace for more violence from far-right groups
Far-right militants are reportedly planning more violence in several Israeli cities that have already been rocked by racially motivated clashes.
Israel’s public broadcaster reports that groups of far-right militants are organizing in the towns that experienced clashes between Jews and Arabs last night. The militants are planning to gather in the centers of Bat Yam, Jerusalem, Haifa and Jaffa. Other reports say far-right militants are organizing on Telegram, calling for demonstrations against Arabs and even violence. The far-right group Lehava said it will distribute pepper spray and tear gas to its activists next week.
Three minors were arrested this afternoon in the northern town of Afula carrying an electric shocker, pepper spray and a bat. They had apparently gathered there after a social media post called for a violent demonstration against Arabs.
A 19-year-old soldier was attacked this evening by Arab men and is hospitalized in serious condition. In the Tel Aviv neighborhood of Hatikvah, far-right activists clashed with local Arab residents. Reports say the activists went there following a call on social networks to demonstrate against Arabs in the neighborhood. The activists apparently also attacked a journalist who was photographing the gathering.
Police are preparing for more hate incidents tonight. Defense Minister Benny Gantz ordered a major call-up of border police reservists to reinforce officers working to contain the unrest. “We are in a time of emergency. At this time a massive response by forces on the ground is needed,” said Gantz. Still, the minister stressed that no IDF soldiers would be involved in police activities.
