More than 10,000 people are set to participate in a large demonstration against efforts to segregate women by ultra-Orthodox Jews, after the latter clashed with police in the town of Beit Shemesh, east of Jerusalem.
People are expected to protest the exclusion of women as well as violence against girls and women in the town of Beit Shemesh, while Jerusalem Police said it has completed preparations to ensure order and secure the demonstrators.
Mayor Moshe Abutbul said he welcomes the protesters to Beit Shemesh “to send a clear message against violence perpetrated by a few (members of the Sicarri sect) who shame the city and all of Israeli society.”
The latest clashes came as police attempted to remove one of the several signs ordering gender segregation in the town of Beit Shemesh.
The Israeli prime minister ordered the action after hearing claims that some religious radical men targeted women and girls they believe are behaving immodestly.
In reaction, at least 300 of the ultra-religious residents pelted police with stones and eggs and set rubbish bins on fire.
An Israeli officer was injured in the clashes and several protesters were consequently arrested.
Most recently, several ultra-Orthodox Jewish communities have been calling for gender segregation and modest dress for women.
Efforts to segregate women have been met by harsh criticism from the Israeli government and society, while several peaceful protests against the phenomena being staged throughout the country.
[wpsr_facebook] [wpsr_retweet] [wpsr_plusone]