Thousands of haredim took part in a demonstration in Jerusalem's Shabbat Square Sunday night to protest a decision to establish a state authority which will be responsible for the tomb of Simeon bar Yochai in Mount Meron. Among the protesters were prominent ultra-Orthodox rabbis and leaders.
The mass rally was fairy calm until dozens began to target passing vehicles in the Mea Shearim neighborhood.
Masses gather at Shabbat Square (Photo: Uzi Perlmutter, 24 News)
The rioters tried to attack Egged buses and hurled stones at a police cruiser. A Jerusalem police force eventually arrested five of the rioters. Leaders of the Eda Haredit condemned the riots at the end of the rally, stressing they were part of a fringe group.
Earlier this month, the government received a bill by the Tourism Ministry for the establishment of a new governmental authority which will be in charge of Simeon bar Yochai's tomb. Members of the Eda Haredit are opposed to what they describe as a "Zionist takeover" of the holy site.