Israel: Hundreds of Haredim clash with police in Beit Shemesh
The unrest in the town of Beit Shemesh, Israel, continue to burn strongly - figuratively and literally. In the latest turn of events surrounding the ongoing religious-based strife between the ultra-orthodox Haredim/Sikrikim and the moderate-religious/secular populace, hundreds of Haredim took to the streets in protest of the recent arrest of one of their own, charged with assaulting a channel 10 news crew. The protesters rioted, lit fires, and hurled both “Nazi” insults and stones towards police forces - all of which took place near the school where the recently harassed 7-year old Na’ama Margolis studies.
Hundreds of haredim rioted and torched trash cans in Beit Shemesh on Thursday night. Police forces that arrived on the scene made efforts to disperse the crowd but were met with resistance from residents, who stoned the officers and blocked roads. Three people were arrested.
Beit Shemesh turned into the epicenter of the turmoil over hostility directed at women in ultra-Orthodox neighborhoods after media outlets reported that the seven-year-old Na’ama Margolis was harassed by haredim on her way to school. The attackers spat on the girl and yelled insults at her for not being dressed “modestly enough” in their opinion.
Thursday’s riots took place next to the girl’s school. A Ynet photographer sent to the scene was threatened by several haredim and had no choice but to leave for fear for his safety.