Jerusalem light rail expansion sparks violent protests

Hundreds of ultra-Orthodox Jewish protesters rioted in Jerusalem on Thursday night to demonstrate against the expansion of the city's light rail system. The unrest occurred on Bar Ilan Street, where demonstrators blocked major intersections, set fires, and threw stones at security forces.

Protesters targeted construction sites, ripping out metal fencing and damaging infrastructure. In response to the violence and refusal to disperse, police deployed crowd-control measures, including stun grenades and water cannons. Authorities reported that two suspects were arrested, one for suspected arson and another for throwing stones at officers.

The Haredi community opposes the project, claiming the transit expansion threatens the “sacrality” of Jerusalem and interferes with traditional pilgrimage and study routes. Conversely, municipal authorities maintain the expansion is vital for urban mobility and managing the capital's population growth. The city has stated that the Knesset-approved project includes mitigation measures to protect archaeological sites and sacred areas.