Brazilian police release three Israeli tourists after clashes with pro-Palestine locals in Itacaré

Brazilian police on Monday released three Israeli tourists detained after a confrontation with pro-Palestine demonstrators in the coastal town of Itacaré , in Bahia state, highlighting rising tensions linked to the ongoing Gaza conflict .

According to Bahia state police, the three men, aged between 21 and 22, were accused of insulting officers and resisting arrest after becoming involved in a dispute with protesters during a demonstration on Saturday. Authorities said the situation escalated when the tourists allegedly reacted aggressively after being questioned by local residents.

Videos of the incident circulated widely on Brazilian social media, showing heated exchanges between the tourists and demonstrators carrying Palestinian flags and chanting slogans against Israel’s military campaign in Gaza. Police confirmed that officers intervened to prevent further escalation, and no serious injuries were reported .

Itacaré, a town of around 30,000 residents located about 1,340 kilometres north of Rio de Janeiro, has in recent years become a popular destination for former Israeli soldiers, a trend that has occasionally drawn criticism from some local groups.

Police also noted that divisions within the community were evident, as a separate demonstration supporting tourists took place the same day, reflecting broader polarisation in Brazil over the conflict.

Authorities said investigations are ongoing , and did not clarify whether formal charges would be pursued against the tourists.