Ultra-Orthodox Protesters Clash With Police Over Jerusalem Light Rail Construction

On the evening of Thursday, August 27, 2026, hundreds of ultra-Orthodox protesters violently opposed the construction of the Jerusalem light rail on Bar Ilan Street. The demonstrators caused significant damage to the construction site, uprooted fences, and attempted to break into the work area. Police and Border Police forces responded with stun grenades and water cannons, arresting two suspects, one for arson and another for throwing stones at officers.

The light rail line, intended to connect the Gilo neighborhood with Har Nof, was originally scheduled for completion by the end of 2025. However, due to delays including the recent conflict and persistent opposition from extremist ultra-Orthodox factions, construction only began in October 2025, pushing the expected completion to late 2027. Recent reports estimate that damages from these protests have already cost the project around 500 million shekels.

The ultra-Orthodox protesters object to the light rail passing through their neighborhoods, citing concerns over the presence of secular passengers and women they consider immodest. Some have called the project disruptive to their way of life, despite the fact that the light rail does not operate on the Sabbath and will reduce air pollution caused by the many buses currently using Bar Ilan Street.

Voices within the ultra-Orthodox community are divided; while some, like Yoelish Krois, advocate total opposition to the project, others, including members of the Gur Hasidic community living near the construction site, express support, anticipating improved traffic conditions and quality of life once the rail is operational.

The Jerusalem Police stated that they declared the protest an illegal disturbance and used force to disperse the crowd after warnings were ignored. The ongoing conflict highlights the tension between urban development and religious community sensitivities in Jerusalem.