IDF Removes AI Video Advising Haredi Draft Dodgers on Avoiding Arrest at Ben Gurion Airport

The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) posted and then quickly removed an AI-generated video on one of its official Instagram pages that featured a Haredi figure in uniform advising Haredi draft dodgers on how to avoid arrest at Ben Gurion Airport when traveling abroad. The video suggested that individuals should bring their draft summons, provide personal details, and then legally leave the country without being detained by authorities. This tactic is reportedly well-known within the Haredi community, where many use it to travel without ultimately enlisting in the military.

The video sparked immediate criticism and was taken down within hours. The IDF clarified that the video did not represent its official stance on managing draft status, which aims solely at meaningful enlistment and service. They added that the video’s original intent was to explain the draft status regularization process to relevant conscripts, including the restrictions that apply after this process. The IDF also noted that the video was posted against spokesperson guidelines prohibiting content uploads during the election period and that the incident will be investigated.

In recent years, dozens of Breslov Hasidim have been arrested before Rosh Hashanah while attempting to board flights to Europe en route to Uman, Ukraine, for pilgrimage. Breslov rabbis have previously warned against risking arrest to visit Rabbi Nachman’s grave and have emphasized refusal to enlist or begin military training even to gain permission to travel to Uman.