Police arrested five suspects after dozens of protesters blocked the light rail route at Haim Bar-Lev and Zaks streets in Jerusalem early Tuesday morning. 

Demonstrators were throwing rocks and objects at police forces operating at the scene as trains were being moved along the tracks. 

Police arrived at the scene and issued a dispersal order.

After the crowd failed to comply with orders, police forces, including Jerusalem District officers, Border Police fighters, and Yasam special patrol officers, dispersed the riot using riot dispersal measures, including a water cannon and stun grenades.

All five suspects were taken to the police station for questioning.

Ultra-Orthodox Jewish men, some dressed in sacks as a sign of mourning take part in a “Tikkun Chatzot” prayer during a protest against construction work for the Jerusalem Light Rail, in Jerusalem, July 21, 2026.
Ultra-Orthodox Jewish men, some dressed in sacks as a sign of mourning take part in a “Tikkun Chatzot” prayer during a protest against construction work for the Jerusalem Light Rail, in Jerusalem, July 21, 2026. (credit: YONATAN SINDEL/FLASH90)

The protest is one of many demonstrations by Haredi (ultra-Orthodox) individuals in recent months protesting projects to expand light rail routes in Jerusalem. 

Police respond to violent incident at Hilula

At the same time, police received a report of a violent incident involving several individuals in a Hilula, which led to a disturbance at the site and endangered participants.

Police said that forces continue to operate at the scene to restore order and maintain public safety.