Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has called for the immediate deportation of Eritrean migrants involved in a violent clash in Tel Aviv. Netanyahu has also ordered a plan to remove all African migrants from the country. The clash occurred between rival groups of Eritreans and resulted in numerous injuries. Supporters and opponents of Eritrea’s government faced off, using construction lumber, rocks, and other objects to cause damage. Israeli police responded with tear gas, stun grenades, and live rounds in an attempt to control the situation.
This incident has reignited the long-standing division in Israel over the issue of migrants. Supporters of Netanyahu’s judicial overhaul plan argue that the migrant issue demonstrates the need to limit the power of the courts, which they believe have hindered efforts to deport migrants. However, under international law, Israel cannot forcibly return migrants to countries where their lives or freedom may be at risk.
Netanyahu has requested harsh measures against the rioters, specifically calling for the immediate deportation of those involved. He has also asked ministers to come up with plans for the removal of all other illegal infiltrators. Notably, the Supreme Court struck down certain measures intended to coerce migrants into leaving.
Currently, approximately 25,000 African migrants, primarily from Sudan and Eritrea, reside in Israel. While some claim to be seeking asylum due to conflict or repression in their home countries, Israel recognizes very few as asylum seekers and views them primarily as economic migrants. As a result, the country has employed various tactics to encourage migrants to leave, including sending some to remote prisons or withholding part of their wages until they agree to depart. Critics argue that these actions amount to coercion.
Supporters of migrants argue that Israel, given its history as a country founded by Jewish refugees, should be more welcoming to those seeking asylum. Opponents contend that the presence of migrants has led to increased crime in low-income neighborhoods where they have settled.
Meanwhile, clashes between Eritrean groups have also taken place in other countries. In Bergen, Norway, supporters and opponents of the Eritrean government clashed during a rally, resulting in injuries and detentions. A similar incident occurred in Stockholm, Sweden, where protesters set fire to booths and cars, causing injuries and numerous detentions.
The President of Eritrea, Isaias Afwerki, has been in power since 1993. The country lacks elections, a free media, and imposes exit visa requirements on its citizens. Human rights groups and UN experts also highlight the conscription and indefinite military service imposed on many young Eritreans.
In conclusion, Prime Minister Netanyahu’s call for the immediate deportation of Eritrean migrants, following a violent clash in Tel Aviv, has reignited the divisive issue of migrants in Israel. While supporters argue for strict measures, opponents advocate for a more compassionate approach, given Israel’s historical background. Similar clashes involving Eritrean groups have also occurred in other countries, signaling a broader concern.
