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

On the evening of August 27, dozens of ultra-Orthodox protesters demonstrated in Jerusalem against the ongoing light rail construction and the continued 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. At the light rail construction site, clashes erupted between the demonstrators and police.

During the protest, participants threw objects, set trash bins on fire, and attempted to intermittently block traffic routes, disrupting daily life and causing damage near the construction area. Signs seen at the demonstration expressed opposition to Judge Solberg and Jerusalem Mayor Moshe Lion, with one reading, "We passed Noam Solberg and, God willing, we will pass Moshe Lion too," and another stating, "The light rail will not pass Bar Ilan!"

Police declared the protest an illegal disturbance and ordered the crowd to disperse. When the protesters did not comply, officers 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 police station. Jerusalem district police continue to work at the scene to reestablish public order.