Concerns Over Police Treatment of Ethiopian Israelis Raised in Knesset

On Tuesday, a meeting of the Knesset’s Special Committee for Oversight of Barrier Removal Processes highlighted significant concerns regarding the policing of Israelis of Ethiopian descent. MK Pnina Tamano-Shata, chair of the Blue and White faction, initiated the discussion following the refusal of MK Tzvika Fogel, chair of the National Security Committee, to convene a similar session. The meeting aimed to address allegations of harassment and discrimination faced by the Ethiopian community from law enforcement.

The Jerusalem Report

During the session, parents of young individuals who had experienced police violence shared their distressing accounts. Naniy Mengistu recounted her son Moshe's violent arrest in Ashdod, stating he was "brutally beaten" and has not received adequate medical treatment while in detention. Tagest Mentsenot described the trauma her sons endured after being arrested by undercover officers, leading to severe anxiety and sleep disturbances. Adisalem Dego detailed a harrowing experience where her son was arrested under false pretenses, with weapons drawn during the incident. Uriel Yosef Adna expressed his fear of police encounters, stating, “When I think I may not make it home for no reason, I give up in advance.”

The Jerusalem Report

In response to the allegations, police spokesperson Aryeh Doron emphasized the efforts made by the Israel Police to improve relations with the Ethiopian community. He mentioned the establishment of a dedicated unit for community engagement and initiatives aimed at expunging criminal records for individuals of Ethiopian descent. Doron asserted, “We work day and night for the Ethiopian community, and we will do everything possible to improve relations.”

The Jerusalem Report

Despite the police's claims of progress, Tamano-Shata criticized the lack of accountability and responsiveness from law enforcement. She highlighted her unsuccessful attempts to arrange meetings with police leadership to discuss these issues, stating, “You do not take responsibility, and that is why nothing changes.” She further expressed concern over the treatment of elected officials, asserting that the police must remember they are public servants.

The Jerusalem Report

While police officials claim to be making strides in addressing community concerns, the testimonies from affected families paint a starkly different picture. The disconnect between police assurances and the lived experiences of Ethiopian Israelis raises questions about the effectiveness of current initiatives and the sincerity of police efforts to foster trust within the community.

The Jerusalem Report

• “There is almost no one I have not spoken to about this reality. It is difficult. I want to believe that after a decade in which the community has taken to the streets, bleeding from the heart to awaken our brothers and sisters, Israelis who are not Black will understand that we are not safe.” — MK Pnina Tamano-Shata

The Jerusalem Report

• “My son was brutally beaten by officers. He is still in detention and has not received proper treatment,” — Naniy Mengistu, mother of Moshe

The Jerusalem Report

• “It cannot be that seeing a police officer makes me suffer.” — Uriel Yosef Adna

The Jerusalem Report

This meeting reflects ongoing tensions and the urgent need for dialogue and reform to address the systemic issues affecting the Ethiopian community in Israel.

The Jerusalem Report