Jerusalem Light Rail Disrupted Amid Clashes at Rabbi Nachman Celebration

Severe disturbances and clashes with police erupted in Jerusalem early Thursday morning during celebrations for Rabbi Nachman of Breslov and the Sukkot festival, drawing thousands of attendees. The annual event, hosted by Rabbi Shalom Arush at his "Chut Shel Chessed" institutions, saw thousands of Breslov Hasidim and Jerusalem residents gather for prayer and festivities. This year's event was attended by Sephardic Chief Rabbi Yitzhak Yosef and several Knesset members from the Shas party.

However, around 3:00 AM, a group of participants began rioting on Chaim Bar Lev Boulevard and Zaks Street. Dozens blocked the light rail tracks, obstructing train movement and causing disruptions for commuters, especially during the intermediate days of Sukkot. They also blocked civilian vehicles and threw stones and objects at police officers.

Police forces, including Border Police and special patrol units, were deployed to clear the tracks and disperse the rioters. During the confrontations, objects were thrown at officers, leading to the arrest of one individual. This arrest escalated the situation, with dozens of celebrants blocking the road and clashing with police. Videos from the scene appear to show police using force during some arrests.

The police stated that after the disturbances began and warnings to disperse were ignored, officers used crowd-control measures, including a water cannon and stun grenades. Simultaneously, an incident of violence was reported within the celebration grounds, with some witnesses claiming Rabbi Shalom Arush's son was attacked while trying to de-escalate the situation.

In total, five suspects were arrested on suspicion of involvement in the disturbances and violence. They were taken for questioning at the police station. Police and Border Police continued to operate in the area throughout the night to restore order and ensure public safety.