Clashes Erupt in Tel Aviv Among Eritrean Asylum Seekers - Police fired gun shots: 170 injured

Over the weekend, Tel Aviv witnessed a disturbing outbreak of severe violence involving asylum seekers from Eritrea, underscoring the ongoing tensions between supporters of the Eritrean regime and its opponents. These clashes come against the backdrop of President Isaias Afwerki's lengthy rule since Eritrea declared independence in 1993. Notably, since 2011, Eritrean embassies worldwide have organized special festivals celebrating local culture, which some opponents of the regime view as a display of government power and persecution through these global embassy events.

The recent violent confrontations in Tel Aviv unfolded during an event hosted by the local Eritrean embassy, resulting in over 170 people sustaining injuries. Similar incidents have occurred in various countries worldwide, where clashes between opponents and supporters of the Eritrean government have erupted.

During the Tel Aviv riots, the participants wielded clubs, hurled stones, and brandished knives. Law enforcement responded with live fire, resulting in injuries to at least 135 individuals, including around 30 police officers, with at least 39 arrests made. Authorities declared that they have regained control after hours of tumultuous clashes, but normalcy will take time to be fully restored in some affected areas.

Local business owners, like Shaoli Levy, expressed their frustration, stating, "We're out of business. It's not enough that the situation is difficult; we've lost another two or three days of work. How will we seat people now? How will we operate the business? More expenses upon expenses, that's not over forever." Levy highlighted his early attempts to alert the police about the escalating situation, underscoring the need for a more substantial police presence given the magnitude of the protests.

Commissioner Kobi Shabtai referred to the riots as an "extreme incident," unprecedented in Israel's history, and suggested possible external involvement.

Commissioner Shabtai outlined the authorities' current efforts, stating, "We are constantly alert to the possibility of protests developing at the same time. I hope we won't have to, but if we have to, we will know what to do." He added that treatment of detainees would adhere to the law, with different protocols for those with and without legal status.

The Magen David Adom (MDA) reported a severe shortage of blood due to the large number of wounded individuals evacuated to hospitals during the Tel Aviv unrest. The MDA initiated special blood donation drives at local hospitals to address this critical shortage.

Police sources admitted to failing in their preparation for the Eritrean demonstration in Tel Aviv, which resulted in over 150 injuries, including 49 police officers. The police responded with live ammunition, sponge balls, and stun grenades, citing the need to protect officers' lives. The riots centered around an event at the Eritrean Embassy in south Tel Aviv, with demonstrators protesting the dictatorial regime of President Isaias Afwerki.

Despite the security challenges, the police emphasized the importance of upholding democratic principles by allowing approved events to proceed and not yielding to threats of violence. The police argue that the substantial number of wounded on their side underscores the explosive potential of the demonstration.

In conclusion, the violent clashes in Tel Aviv have shed light on the ongoing tension and unrest among Eritrean asylum seekers and the challenges faced by authorities in maintaining public order during such events.