Housing protests continue unabated

Police arrest seven protesters trying to block street in Haifa; rallies held in Tel Aviv, Ashdod, Kiryat Shmona

Reuters | Published: 07.26.11, 23:47

Some 700 protesters gathered in Park Haim in Haifa Tuesday night to protest against the rising housing prices.

After the rally a few demonstrators attempted to block a nearby street, which led to the arrest of seven of them.

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Meanwhile, a similar rally was held in the Tel Aviv neighborhood of Hatikva Quarter. HaEtzel Street was partially blocked due to the southern Tel Aviv protest.

"Bibi go home, we also deserve a home," shouted demonstrators who were unimpressed with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's housing plan Tuesday.

In Ashdod, hundreds of residents took to the streets as part of the national protest against the rise in housing prices, including families, young couples and students.

Vice Premier Silvan Shalom showed his support in Kiryat Shmona saying: "I believe this is a genuine and real protest, despite radicals who are trying to join the demonstration. It's a unique protest, especially due to those participating in it."

In a response to the PM's latest speech, protesters claimed "Netanyahu is looking us in the eyes and lying," as they promised to continue on fighting.