In a highly violent clash among African asylum seekers and migrants in Tel Aviv, Israeli police, Eritrean government supporters, and opponents engaged in street confrontations, resulting in numerous injuries. The altercation involved the use of construction lumber, metal pieces, rocks, and even an axe, causing damage to the neighborhood. Shop windows were smashed, police cars were vandalized, and blood stains were visible on the sidewalks. Tear gas, stun grenades, and live rounds were deployed by riot police, who were also mounted on horseback. The clashes coincided with the commemoration of the 30th anniversary of the current ruler’s ascent to power, organized near the Eritrean embassy in south Tel Aviv. Eritrea is notorious for its abysmal human rights records, and asylum seekers fear returning to the country due to the risk of persecution and death. Over 30,000 African asylum seekers reside in Israel, with a significant percentage being Eritreans. The clashes subsided by late Saturday afternoon, with the police arresting several protesters and recovering weapons. A total of 114 individuals were injured, with 30 of them being police officers. Tel Aviv’s Ichilov Hospital is treating 11 individuals for gunshot wounds. Anti-government protestors donned sky blue shirts representing Eritrea’s opposition to the government, while government supporters wore purple shirts displaying the country’s map. Eritrea has been referred to as the “North Korea of Africa” due to its lack of democracy, absence of free media, and compulsory military conscription. Young Eritreans are forced into indefinite military service, and exit visas are necessary to leave the country. Despite facing an uncertain future in Israel, Eritrean asylum seekers appreciate the rights and freedoms they can exercise, such as the right to protest. However, they are frequently targeted and harassed by the Eritrean government and its supporters even while in Israel. Controversially, events like the one in Tel Aviv raise funds for the heavily sanctioned Eritrean government and exert pressure on Eritreans who are far away from home.
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