Clashes Erupt in Safed as Ultra-Orthodox Protesters Block Roads on Sabbath

On Saturday, around 150 ultra-Orthodox protesters attempted to block a public bus at the Meron junction, continuing a protest that began weeks ago in Safed and has since spread to Meron. The demonstrators aim to prevent public transportation lines from leaving Safed before the Sabbath begins. Opposing them were about 70 residents from the Galilee region, activists from the "Free Way" movement, who tried to stop the protesters from disrupting traffic. Police forces arrived at the scene to manage the confrontation.

Last month, dozens of ultra-Orthodox protesters blocked the main road near the central bus station in Safed, disrupting vehicle traffic and shouting "Shabas" at drivers. Police intervened to disperse the demonstration. This road blockage occurred just hours after a limited response from the general public, when about ten vehicle owners drove in a convoy through the city market area to protest the frequent road blockages.

The ongoing tensions highlight the conflict between ultra-Orthodox protesters opposing public transportation on the Sabbath and local secular residents advocating for free movement. Authorities continue to monitor the situation at key junctions in the region.