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Violence erupts at anti-government rally in Jerusalem

Left-wing activists mobilized ahead of a Cabinet vote to dismiss Shin Bet chief Ronen Bar.

Israelis clash with police during a protest in Jerusalem against Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's decision to fire Shin Bet head Ronen Bar, March 20, 2025. Photo by Yonatan Sindel/Flash90.
Israelis clash with police during a protest in Jerusalem against Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s decision to fire Shin Bet head Ronen Bar, March 20, 2025. Photo by Yonatan Sindel/Flash90.

A protest in Jerusalem against the government turned violent Thursday afternoon as footage appeared to show a physical altercation between a police officer and Knesset member Yair Golan, leader of the left-wing The Democrats party.

Demonstrators tried to breach a police barricade on Gaza Street near Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s official residence, leading to clashes with officers. Protesters also blocked traffic in the area.

The unrest comes as left-wing activists mobilize nationwide ahead of a Cabinet vote Thursday night on the dismissal of Shin Bet Director Ronen Bar.

This is a developing story.

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