Wadi Ara: Protesters clash with police
Hundreds block Route 65 in protest of razing of house belonging to Abu Sharkiye family which government claims was built illegally. Protesters hurl stones, police use tear gas, shock grenades
The protesters hurled stones at police and Border Guard forces who responded by firing tear gas and shock grenades. One protester was lightly injured. A brush fire erupted as a result of the firing.
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Protesters called out slogans, including "Israel is a terrorist State." Balad Leader MK Jamal Zahalka arrived at the scene.
The residents of Wadi Ara are protesting against the demolition of a house belonging to the Said Abu Sharkiye family which the Interior Ministry has determined was built illegally.
Large police and Border Guard forces arrived at the scene ahead of time in order to prevent the blocking of the road – a move which was announced earlier in the week.
On Thursday, businesses in the area were closed in protest of the razing. Local authorities and schools were shut down.
At the rally (Photo: Hassan Shaalan)
Border Gaurd forces (Photo: Hassan Shaalan)
The Wadi Ara popular committee said the strike was the first step in a series of protest acts.
Naif Abu Sharkiye says he and his family have been living in the house since 1969. "We have no where to go, we're left with no roof over our heads," he said and vowed to erect a tent where the house stood.
"Our house was built in accordance with the planning and construction law. The state wants to drive us out of our lands by force. Our house won't be the last, more houses will be razed."
By 3 pm police had dispersed the rally, but remained at the scene. Durring the protest, the police arrested two of the protesters for allegedly attacking a police officer.
According to the police no officers or protesters were wounded.
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