JERUSALEM — Long-building tensions over pandemic restrictions within Israel's ultra-Orthodox Jewish neighborhoods erupted in violence Sunday night as rock-throwing crowds pushed back police attempts to clear yeshiva classes and religious gatherings being held in violation of lockdown rules.

Rioters burned trash and toppled street signs and light poles in several cities across Israel. In Bnei Brak, a bus driver was pulled from his seat and pepper sprayed before the vehicle was torched, according to news and social media reports, leading to several buildings being evacuated as the blaze damaged electric lines. At one point, a cornered police officer fired into the air to halt the advancing crowd.

The riots were eventually quelled in some neighborhoods by police wielding stun grenades and water cannons.

The unrest has been growing in recent weeks as police have stepped up enforcement within insular ultra-Orthodox communities, which traditionally resist government authority. On Friday, protesters attacked a police vehicle patrolling Bnei Brak.