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Israeli Arabs and Jewish Allies Stage Nationwide 'Day of Disruption' Over Deadly Crime Wave

Organizers say mounting deaths reflect state neglect of Arab communities.

Overview

  • Bereaved families and the Standing Together movement blocked roads, staged work stoppages, and dyed fountains red across multiple cities including Tel Aviv, Jerusalem, Haifa, and Beersheba.
  • Police said they made seven arrests as protesters briefly shut the Ayalon Highway in Tel Aviv and poured red dye into public pools and fountains.
  • At least 36 Arab citizens have been killed since the start of the year, while police told lawmakers there were at least 241 Arab-community homicides in 2025 compared with 47 among Jewish Israelis.
  • Demonstrators accuse the government and police of failing to curb violence and some leaders called for the dismissal of National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir.
  • Authorities and analysts link the killings to entrenched organized crime, loan-sharking, and widespread illegal firearms, while police cite difficulties securing evidence and witness cooperation.