Mass Protests Erupt as Tel Aviv Police Chief Resigns, Paralyzing City's Streets

Thousands of Israelis took to the streets and blocked major highways across the country after Tel Aviv police chief Amichai Eshed announced his resignation, claiming "political considerations" and refusing to use "disproportionate force" against protesters. The largest demonstration occurred at Tel Aviv's Ayalon Highway, where clashes between police and protesters resulted in arrests and injuries. The protests were in solidarity with Eshed and against the hardline coalition's handling of judicial overhaul protesters. Similar demonstrations took place in Jerusalem and other locations across Israel. The protests have been ongoing since January, opposing controversial legislation to remake Israel's judiciary.