Jerusalem: Israeli police arrested 12 protesters near Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's residence on Gaza Street in West Jerusalem on Wednesday night, amid demonstrations against the dismissal of Shin Bet chief Ronen Bar and the government's handling of hostages in Gaza.

According to Anadolu Agency, police reported that riots erupted in Jerusalem, leading to the arrest of 12 individuals for disturbing public order, making threats, and assaulting civilians and officers. Security forces and border police worked to restore order as protesters set fires in the road, prompting police to use fire extinguishers.

Clashes ensued between demonstrators and security forces, with police deploying skunk water to disperse the crowd. A police officer and a civilian were reportedly assaulted during the confrontation.

The daily Yedioth Ahronoth reported that a police officer sustained minor injuries and was taken to a hospital for treatment. Demonstrators blocked Gaza Street near Netanyahu's residence, protesting government policies, including the resumption of military operations in Gaza and plans to dismiss Attorney General Gali Baharav-Miara.

Protest leader Moshe Radman expressed optimism about the demonstrations, stating, "The people of Israel will not give up on democracy. Tens of thousands protested yesterday, and today, more than 100,000 have arrived in Jerusalem." He criticized Netanyahu's leadership and called for a general strike, urging labor and business leaders to take action.

Tensions escalated as protesters attempted to breach security barriers near the prime minister's residence. Hebrew media aired footage of a taxi running over a demonstrator, causing minor injuries.

The unrest comes amid growing internal divisions in Israel over the war in Gaza and government plans for security and judicial reforms. A ceasefire and prisoner exchange agreement between Hamas and Israel expired on March 1, with Netanyahu later backing away from the second phase of the deal, which involved additional prisoner releases.

Analysts suggest that Netanyahu's decision to resume military strikes is linked to his efforts to secure the state budget and maintain his coalition. The renewed offensive helped him regain the support of far-right National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir, ensuring his party's backing for the budget proposal.