Clashes between police officers and protesters were reported, with protesters reportedly shooting fireworks and throwing rocks at police officers who had been stationed to maintain a peaceful protest. MK Mansour Abbas, head of United Arab List, was assaulted by protesters as well.
His guards moved him to a nearby restaurant to protect him from the crowed that tried to surround him. Following the violent incident, Abbas said he will not be intimidated and will return to protest next week. "I was attacked by young individuals who are not residents of Umm al-Fahm," he told Ynet. "I will come back to protest." Several MKs from Meretz expressed support in protesters and join the Friday protests in Umm al-Fahm. "We are protesting against the police conduct that involves running away from criminals and assaulting protesters," MK Ghaida Rinawie Zoabi said. "We've come here as Arabs and Jews to say enough to the raging crime in the Arab sector and to demand personal safety," MK Esawi Frej added.Breakaway Arab Israeli MK Mansour Abbas attempts to join mass anti-organized crime protest in Umm al-Fahm, only to be confronted by dozens of demonstrators calling for him to "get out." His aides appear to have extracted him from the scene after some tension. pic.twitter.com/elgPT7qtH3
— Aaron Boxerman (@aboxerman1) March 5, 2021