Protests Erupt in Israel Amid Controversial Government Policies

Thu 20th Mar, 2025

Protests against the policies of Israel's right-wing government have escalated into violent clashes between demonstrators and law enforcement in Jerusalem. Reports indicate that several protesters attempted to breach police barricades, leading to confrontations that resulted in multiple arrests, as detailed by local media outlet 'ynet'.

In a troubling incident, a taxi driver allegedly struck a protester in Jerusalem, as captured in video footage reviewed by the 'Times of Israel'. Additionally, witnesses from a demonstration opposing the ongoing conflict in Gaza reported that police officers used physical force against participants, with claims that one woman sustained a broken arm during the altercation.

A spokesperson for the Israeli police stated that numerous protestors had blocked streets and disregarded directives from law enforcement, prompting officers to push them back onto the sidewalks. However, these claims remain unverified.

Thousands gathered in Jerusalem to voice their opposition to the proposed dismissal of the head of the internal security service, along with the escalation of military action in Gaza.

In the early hours, the Israeli military reported intercepting a missile fired from Yemen. Sirens were activated in various regions following the missile launch, signaling the alert. The Israeli air force successfully neutralized the threat before the missile could enter Israeli territory. So far, the Houthi fighters from Yemen have not claimed responsibility for this attack.

Earlier, it was reported that US forces targeted Houthi-controlled areas in Yemen. According to 'Al-Masirah TV', American strikes hit the capital Sanaa, as well as areas surrounding the northern city of Saada and al-Sawadija district in al-Bayda province. This military action follows repeated claims by the Houthi militia of attacks against the US aircraft carrier USS Harry Truman in the Red Sea.

US President Donald Trump warned the Houthis of severe consequences for their actions, emphasizing that their continued aggression would result in devastating retaliatory measures. He also urged Iran to cease its support for the Houthi militia, noting reports of a reduction in Iran's military assistance.

In a separate incident, an Israeli airstrike in northern Gaza led to numerous casualties, according to Palestinian sources. Reports suggest that at least twelve individuals were killed, with many others injured. The attack reportedly targeted individuals mourning the loss of a family member.

Israeli military authorities stated they were investigating the claims regarding the airstrike on the mourning gathering, while asserting that their operations were aimed at Hamas positions.

Furthermore, Israel's Minister of Defense announced imminent evacuation orders for civilians in Gaza, hinting at a significant escalation in military operations. He stated that the initial airstrikes were just the beginning and warned that far worse actions were forthcoming unless Hamas released hostages.

He characterized the situation as a final warning to Gaza's residents, indicating that a robust military response would follow if Hamas did not comply.

The Israeli military has commenced a ground offensive in Gaza, aiming to establish a buffer zone between the northern and southern regions of the territory. This operation follows intensified airstrikes that have effectively terminated the ceasefire in place since January.

In a concerning development, a UN employee was reportedly killed during an Israeli airstrike, with several others injured. The United Nations has expressed outrage over the incident, calling for an investigation into the attack.

As tensions continue to rise, international organizations are urging for an immediate cessation of hostilities and the resumption of humanitarian aid to the region. Reports of deteriorating living conditions in Gaza have prompted calls for intervention.


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