Israel passes law limiting protests in lockdown

Israel's parliament voted early Wednesday morning in favor of significant restrictions on protests as part of a strict nationwide lockdown in the wake of rising coronavirus infections.

The bill, which was approved by lawmakers after a 46-38 vote, allows the government to declare a week-long state of emergency if the coronavirus spreads out of control. If such a state is called, the government would be able to confine demonstrators to a 1-kilometer (0.6 mile) radius of their own homes.

On the eve of the vote hundreds of Israelis protested against the proposed measure. Residents blocked streets surrounding the Knesset, Israel's parliament, as many more demonstrated in a square outside the building while lawmakers debated whether the weekly protests against Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu should be allowed to continue despite the lockdown. 

Read more: Israelis mark Yom Kippur under lockdown

Anger at Netanyahu

Indeed, last week citizens vented their displeasure at the possible measure to stymie protests by gathering outside the official residence of Netanyahu in Jerusalem, calling for the long-time leader's resignation. Many were brandishing placards such as "disgrace" or "ashamed," while another was emblazoned with the words "Thou Shalt Not Steal," in reference to accusations of fraud, breach of trust and accepting bribes. He has denied any wrongdoing, accusing the media and law enforcement of an orchestrated "witch hunt" against him.

Israel implemented an intense, second lockdown earlier this month with open-air markets and all nonessential businesses closing as infections in the country soared. 

jsi/dr (AP, AFP, dpa)