Ultra-Orthodox protesters arrested after attacking Israeli justice's home

Dozens of ultra-Orthodox Jewish men were arrested Thursday following an attack on the home of an Israeli Supreme Court justice the previous day. The incident occurred at the residence of Noam Sohlberg in the Alon Shvut settlement. The protest was a direct response to the apprehension of ultra-Orthodox men for evading mandatory military service.

Israeli police stated that dozens of demonstrators caused disturbances and vandalism at Sohlberg's home. Several individuals were apprehended and questioned. Police Commissioner Daniel Levi condemned the actions, asserting, "The right to demonstrate must not turn into violence, vandalism, or harm to public officials." Images circulating in Israeli media depicted shattered windows, broken flowerpots, and a vehicle with a cracked windshield.

Sohlberg, who serves as the deputy president of the Israeli Supreme Court, has previously criticized the police for not taking a firmer stance against ultra-Orthodox Jews who refuse military conscription. Historically, ultra-Orthodox men studying Jewish texts full-time have been exempt from military service since 1948. However, the Supreme Court declared this exemption invalid in 2024, leading to increased tensions and enforcement.

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The right to demonstrate must not turn into violence, vandalism, or harm to public officials.