Grave removal angers Orthodox Jews

Israeli authorities have begun removing ancient graves to make way for a hospital emergency room, setting off protests from ultra-Orthodox Jews who say they are Jewish remains.

Police arrested 15 protesters who tried to block the work. Archaeologists have determined the graves in Ashkelon belonged to Christians or pagans from the Byzantine period, about 1400 years ago.

But ultra-Orthodox Jews insist they are Jewish bones that should not be moved, in accordance with religious practice.

The Cabinet initially voted to relocate the facility but the Prime Minister vetoed that because of the cost.