Police Chief Warns of Firm Response to Disruption at Hostages Rally

Police Commissioner Dany Levy issued a stern warning on Saturday, stating that anyone attempting to disrupt the planned rally in Tel Aviv's Hostages Square would face a determined police force with zero tolerance for violence or disorder. Levy clarified that his message was directed at those intending to cause trouble, not at legitimate protesters exercising their right to demonstrate.

The warning came after the "October Council," an organizing body, sent an urgent letter to the Police Commissioner. The council alerted the police to intelligence suggesting that individuals connected to the ruling coalition might attempt to disrupt the rally, which is scheduled for Saturday evening. The council specifically warned of potential attempts to incite confrontations, bring in unauthorized signs and messages, and create provocations.

The October Council urged the police to conduct an immediate assessment and deploy increased forces. In their statement, they emphasized that they would not allow the rally, which aims to honor victims of the October 7th attacks and demand a state inquiry, to be hijacked or its message undermined. They stressed that responsibility for maintaining order and preventing disturbances lies with the police.

The rally, titled "For Them. For Us.," is set to take place at 7:30 PM in Hostages Square. It will feature bereaved families, survivors, and residents from affected areas, along with reservists and the injured. Speakers and artists are expected to address themes of remembrance, pain, and hope. The council reiterated its call for attendees to avoid any provocations or violence and to report any suspicious activity to the police.