Israeli police arrest 16 people, hand out nine fines for disturbances at protests

The Israeli police say that 16 people were arrested during the anti-government and hostage rallies in Tel Aviv on March 30.

They say an additional nine fines totaling 1,000 Israeli new sheqels ($270) were given out for disturbances and blocking traffic, The Times of Israel reports.

Police add that all roads have been opened as the demonstrations have concluded.

The families of Israeli hostages held in Gaza held weekly rallies in Tel Aviv on March 30 evening to press for an agreement, as protests against the government were also being held nationwide.

The main rally for the captives was getting under way at 7:30 (GMT+3) in Tel Aviv’s Hostages Square, with a second being held at the entrance to the Kirya defense headquarters in the city.

The rally comes as Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu gave approval on March 29 for an Israeli delegation to resume indirect negotiations with Hamas in Cairo in the coming days for a truce and hostage deal.