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Haredi activists rush to Ashdod checkpoint after draft dodgers detained in stop

From Jerusalem Post · () English

Summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.

At a glance

News Named sources Under investigation
  • Haredi activists responded to the detention of two young men suspected of draft dodging by gathering at an Ashdod checkpoint.
  • Approximately 100 haredi individuals arrived to support the men, attempting to disrupt police work.
  • Police assured protesters that the individuals were not being arrested but would be referred to the Military Police, following a day of similar draft-related demonstrations.

Haredi activists mobilized quickly to an Ashdod checkpoint after two young men, identified as draft dodgers, were detained overnight. The incident prompted a swift response from the ultra-Orthodox community, with around 100 activists arriving at the scene to support the detained individuals.

The young men, both 25 years old, were stopped during a routine check. Upon realizing their status, they contacted the "Black Color" hotline, a dedicated forum for dispatching protestors during draft dodger arrests. The activists reportedly attempted to disrupt the police's work at the checkpoint.

Authorities assured the gathered protesters that the individuals were not being arrested but would be handed over to the Military Police. This incident followed a day marked by significant demonstrations from haredi protesters opposing the military draft, which led to disruptions on major Israeli highways and the railway line to the airport.

The protests lasted for approximately two hours before being dispersed. The haredi community's strong opposition to military conscription has led to recurring tensions and demonstrations, particularly in recent times.

tried to disrupt our work

โ€” PolicePolice described the actions of the haredi protesters who arrived at the Ashdod checkpoint.
DistantNews Editorial

Originally published by Jerusalem Post. Summarized and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.