Public Security Minister Amir Ohana warned on Wednesday that unless Israelis find a way to rise above their differences, "we will end up with blood."
Speaking with Israel Hayom this week, he warned that the latest protests against Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu were a source of concern.
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"We are not going to see a civil war, but we are going to see violence rising steadily," he lamented. "Yes, we see there is an atmosphere of hatred in the air during these demonstrations, not of division. Divisions have always existed and will continue to exist, but this time it feels like there is actual hatred between the two sides. I hope I am wrong, but my feeling is that it will turn bloody."
In recent days demonstrations against the prime minister have heated up, with hundreds converging on his official residence and his private home.
According to Netanyahu and police, some protesters have presented potential danger to the prime minister, citing inciting comments and displays that could be interpreted as fighting words.
On Saturday, some demonstrators were attacked by Netanyahu supporters. Following this incident, Netanyahu called on law enforcement officials to act against all forms of violence, including by his supporters.
Ohana slammed the protesters picketing Netanyahu's residence in Jerusalem, saying they were anything but peaceful in some cases.
"It is a mixed crowd, with many statements. There are those who shout 'End the occupation,' 'Peace Now!' and so forth, but then there are those who do more aggressive things. There was a video of one protester who said Netanyahu's home should be underground [referring to his grave]. There are people chanting 'traitor' during the protests, and these are the moderates in these protests because other demonstrators actually call for his assassination."
Ohana said the media was partly to blame because it has been fueling the protests with live coverage. "These protesters – they are not even equivalent to the constituency needed for a Knesset seat, so why is everyone calling this a nationwide protest," Ohana asked rhetorically.
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