Tensions Escalate in Safed Over Sabbath Bus Lines Amid Clashes and Threats

In Safed, northern Israel, a fierce conflict has erupted between the ultra-Orthodox and secular communities over bus lines operating on the Sabbath. Over the past three consecutive Saturdays, ultra-Orthodox protesters have blocked the city’s main road near the central bus station, disrupting traffic and shouting at drivers. This past weekend’s protest was particularly intense, revealing deep divisions and escalating hostility between the groups.

The ultra-Orthodox protesters oppose new bus routes, especially line 511, which is planned to run through ultra-Orthodox neighborhoods and near the hospital just before the Sabbath begins. This has heightened fears of violence, with one long-time ultra-Orthodox resident warning of a "huge explosion" of unrest. He also accused external extremist groups, including Satmar Hasidim from America, of inflaming tensions by opposing even the longstanding line 361, which serves soldiers and commuters on Saturdays.

Meanwhile, secular residents have staged counter-protests, including provocative car convoys with loud music through ultra-Orthodox neighborhoods on the Sabbath afternoon. Natalie Maman, a prominent secular activist, condemned the ultra-Orthodox protests as illegal and accused the police of bias for not dispersing them. She described receiving threats and vowed to intensify efforts to defend the secular community’s presence and rights in Safed, which currently comprises about 46% of the city’s population.

The conflict reflects a broader struggle over the city’s character and public space, with incidents such as vandalism of advertisements featuring women and attempts to rename streets after rabbis instead of Zionist figures. Both sides feel persecuted and are preparing for further confrontations, including economic boycotts and increased demonstrations. Attempts by Mayor Yossi Kakon to calm the situation have been undermined by pressure from hardline factions.

The situation remains volatile, with fears that the dispute could escalate into serious violence, threatening the coexistence of Safed’s diverse communities.