The IDF resumed proactive arrests of draft dodgers this week after a pause in enforcement that began with the outbreak of the war with Iran, prompting renewed protests by extremist Haredi factions.
Between Sunday night and Monday morning, Haredi protest groups reported the arrest of a yeshiva student at his home in Jerusalem. The following day, they reported the arrest of a young Haredi man in Herzliya near the yeshiva where he studies.
In response, a faction within the Jerusalem Faction led by Rabbi Tzvi Friedman plans to hold what it called a “stormy protest” Monday, including traffic disruptions in Bnei Brak and Jerusalem.
A week ago, IDF officials said they could no longer carry out arrests because police were avoiding cooperation, and the military cannot operate independently in civilian areas.
Police said that due to an expected protest Tuesday in the Bnei Brak area, traffic changes were possible on Route 4 from Aluf Sadeh to Em Hamoshavot in both directions, along with possible congestion and road closures on Jabotinsky Street in Bnei Brak. Police advised drivers to use alternate routes.
Meanwhile, Israel Police arrested three suspects, including a yeshiva rabbi in Beit Shemesh, on suspicion of involvement in the assault of a Haredi soldier who also serves as a police volunteer.
On Saturday night, the soldier reported to police that an extremist group from a yeshiva in the city had come to his home to protest Zionist activity he organizes in his neighborhood and threatened to burn down his house. A fight later broke out between the protesters and the soldier’s friends.
Police opened an investigation after receiving the report, leading to the identification and arrest of the suspects over the past day. They were questioned at the Beit Shemesh police station and were expected to be brought before the Magistrate’s Court for a remand hearing.
National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir condemned the incident.
“I view with great severity the vile attack on a soldier and police volunteer whose only sin was working to promote Haredi enlistment,” Ben-Gvir said. “The police will show zero tolerance.”
He added: “The enormous 300% increase in Haredi enlistment to the police is the ultimate answer to the extremists. We will not allow anyone to intimidate uniformed personnel or those who act on behalf of the state. Anyone who harms them will face a determined police force that will bring them to justice.”
First published: 14:21, 04.28.26