5 anti-government activists arrested as they block Tel Aviv highway; 12 apprehended in Haifa rally

Activists against the government and in favor of a hostage deal block Tel Aviv’s Ayalon Highway during a protest ahead of what they brand as a week of heightened protests around the country against the decision to expand the war in Gaza.

That week begins with a strike on Sunday attended by many firms and bodies.

Police later say five demonstrators have been arrested, and that the road has been opened.

פעילי מחאה חוסמים את נתיבי איילון בקריאה לשחרור החטופים: "שריקת הפתיחה לקראת שבוע המחאה שצפוי להתחיל בראשון"@AnnaPines_ @YCiechanover
קרדיט: דנור אהרון pic.twitter.com/UcKgWivaIA

— כאן חדשות (@kann_news) August 14, 2025

In Haifa, police have arrested 12 anti-war activists, saying they brandished posters against Israel’s war conduct that “might disrupt public order,” didn’t adhere to the police’s demand to disperse, and ignored cops’ instructions.