Ultra-Orthodox Jews clash with police

Increasing tensions between Ultra-Orthodox Jews and secularists in Israel have recently sparked violence.

In the town of Beit Shemesh, near Jerusalem, the community's imposition of gender segregation in public has been a major factor behind a growing controversy. The town has become a centre of conflict between secular Jews and ultra-Orthodox men demanding strict gender segregation and "modest" dress for women.

The latest clashes came as police attempted to remove one of several signs in the town ordering segregation between the sexes.

Around 300 Haredi Jews set rubbish bins on fire and pelted security forces with stones and eggs, injuring one officer.

The latest row was sparked by the story about an eight year old American girl, Naama Margolese, who said she was afraid to walk to school because ultra-orthodox men shouted at her.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu vowed on Sunday to end attempts to enforce segregation of the sexes. He has ordered a crackdown on segregation, saying harassment and discrimination have no place in a liberal democracy.

Ultra-orthodox Jews make up 10% of the population in Israel. It is estimated the population of Haredi Jews in Israel is of 1.3 million. The community has a high birth rate and is expected to grow rapidly in the next few years.