Israeli police on Saturday arrested at least 18 individuals during separate protests in Tel Aviv and Haifa, as demonstrators took to the streets to oppose the ongoing war involving Iran, according to local media reports.
The arrests occurred amid rising tensions linked to the broader regional conflict, which has drawn international attention and triggered protests in several locations. Authorities said the detentions were made after protesters allegedly disrupted public order and failed to comply with police directives.
According to Yedioth Ahronoth newspaper, 13 people were detained during a demonstration at Habima Square in central Tel Aviv. The protest, which attracted a number of anti-war activists, reportedly escalated into confrontations between participants and law enforcement officers.
Police said some demonstrators engaged in actions that disturbed public peace, prompting intervention by security personnel. Several of those arrested were described by authorities as “rioters,” following clashes that broke out during the rally.
Witness accounts cited by local media indicated that tensions rose as protesters attempted to continue their demonstration despite police instructions to disperse. Officers subsequently moved in to break up the gathering, leading to scuffles and arrests.
In a separate incident in the northern city of Haifa, five additional individuals were arrested during a protest at Horev Junction, which reportedly involved around 100 participants. Police said the arrests were also related to disturbances to public order, though details of the confrontation were limited.
The demonstrations reflect growing domestic reactions to the ongoing military campaign involving Israel, the United States, and Iran. Since the escalation began on February 28, the conflict has resulted in significant casualties and widespread damage across multiple regions.
Reports indicate that airstrikes carried out by U.S. and Israeli forces in Iran have led to the deaths of more than 1,340 people. Among those reported killed is Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, a development that has further intensified the geopolitical crisis.
In response, Iran has launched a series of retaliatory drone and missile attacks targeting Israeli territory, as well as locations in Jordan, Iraq, and Gulf countries that host U.S. military assets. These strikes have caused casualties, damaged infrastructure, and contributed to disruptions in global markets and aviation routes.
Analysts say the protests within Israel highlight internal divisions and public concern over the direction and consequences of the conflict. While some citizens support the government’s military actions, others are increasingly voicing opposition, citing humanitarian, economic, and security concerns.
Security forces in Israel have maintained a strong presence in major cities in response to the demonstrations, with officials emphasising the need to maintain public order amid heightened tensions. Authorities have not indicated whether additional protests are expected, but observers suggest that public demonstrations could continue as the conflict evolves.
The arrests in Tel Aviv and Haifa underscore the broader impact of the regional crisis, which is not only unfolding on the battlefield but also influencing domestic sentiment and civic activity within affected countries.
As the situation continues to develop, attention remains focused on both the military dynamics and the internal responses among populations directly impacted by the conflict.
