Ultra-Orthodox Protesters Clash with Police Over Jerusalem Light Rail Work

On the evening of August 27, dozens of ultra-Orthodox protesters in Jerusalem clashed with police while demonstrating against the light rail construction in the Bar Ilan area and the ongoing investigation of suspects linked to riots outside Judge Noam Solberg's home months earlier. The protesters marched from the Mea Shearim neighborhood toward Bar Ilan Street, accompanied by some suspects under investigation in the case. During the protest, demonstrators threw objects, set trash bins on fire, and attempted to intermittently block traffic, disrupting daily life and causing damage near the light rail construction site.

Police documented signs targeting Judge Solberg and Jerusalem Mayor Moshe Lion, with slogans such as "We passed Noam Solberg and, God willing, we will pass Moshe Lion too" and "The light rail will not pass Bar Ilan!" Authorities declared the gathering an illegal disturbance and ordered the crowd to disperse. When the protesters did not comply, police used force and crowd control measures to restore order. One suspect was arrested on suspicion of arson related to the unrest and taken for questioning at the Eli Hirschman police station. Jerusalem District police continue efforts to maintain public order in the area.