Bus Driver Attacks Spur Exodus, Threaten Public Transport

Attacks against bus drivers, particularly Arab drivers, are escalating, raising concerns about driver safety and the continuity of public transport services. This follows a severe assault on driver Khaled Rizk Owaisat in Jerusalem, who was seriously injured. "The problem is not just the attacks themselves, but the weak response and the high rate of closed complaint files," stated attorney Samah Darwish, director of the Anti-Racism Center. She noted that while attacks are not new, they are increasing, with racism manifesting in various public interactions, including with transport staff.

Darwish cited Ministry of Transportation data indicating that approximately 2,000 drivers leave the profession annually, with a third departing within their first year. Attacks and safety fears are significant contributing factors. This exodus directly impacts public service, leading to frequent delays due to driver shortages.

In response, authorities launched a six-month pilot security plan in 2023, focusing on seven major cities. The initiative includes increased security personnel and patrols on high-risk routes and the establishment of a control center for data analysis. Previously, a lack of specific police classification for such attacks hindered comprehensive data collection.

Data from the Anti-Racism Center and the "Koach LaOvdim" union reveals that about 60% of nationalistic and racist attacks against bus drivers occur in Jerusalem. These attacks range from verbal abuse and physical assault to the use of tear gas, rocks, fireworks, and even dogs.

Darwish emphasized that the core issue is enforcement, not just legislation. "About 80% of the assault cases we follow are closed by the police for various reasons, including insufficient evidence or lack of public interest," she said, noting that this lack of accountability fuels further attacks.

She urged immediate additional measures beyond the pilot plan, such as increased police presence in hot spots and the installation of protective barriers and surveillance cameras inside buses. Darwish stressed that combating this phenomenon requires a joint effort from the Ministry of Transportation, other government ministries, and the government itself, with the Anti-Racism Center acting as a watchdog.