Haredi protests underway in Jerusalem, Tel Aviv over detention of draft dodgers

Ultra-Orthodox protesters, primarily from the anti-IDF draft extremist haredi Jerusalem Faction, staged demonstrations in Jerusalem and Tel Aviv on Wednesday. The protests targeted the Russian Compound in Jerusalem and the National Center for Forensic Medicine in Tel Aviv, both located near major detention centers.

The demonstrators were protesting the detention of 19 haredi men who had evaded mandatory military service. In Jerusalem, dozens of vehicles were reportedly blocked at the Russian Compound, causing significant traffic disruption. Similar actions occurred previously, with haredi protesters blocking a road in the Ramat Shlomo neighborhood on Tuesday, sparked by unconfirmed reports of an arrest.

During Tuesday's protest, rioters allegedly started fires and broke into a police station, leading to the arrest of eight individuals. Jerusalem District Police Commander Avshalom Peled issued a strong statement condemning the violence. "We will not tolerate any harm to the symbols of government and to the valuable police officers who work to protect the law and the public," Peled stated.

The protests highlight ongoing tensions between segments of the ultra-Orthodox community and the Israeli military over conscription. The haredi community has historically received exemptions from military service, but recent efforts to increase enlistment have led to increased friction.

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We will not tolerate any harm to the symbols of government and to the valuable police officers who work to protect the law and the public.