Ultra-Orthodox Protesters Block Highway 443 After Draft-Dodger Arrest Near Jerusalem

A young ultra-Orthodox man in his 20s from Ashdod was arrested on Friday at the Ofar checkpoint near Jerusalem on suspicion of driving a stolen vehicle. During the police check, it was also revealed that he is a draft dodger. Following the arrest, dozens of extremist ultra-Orthodox protesters arrived at the scene, clashing with security forces and blocking Highway 443, causing severe traffic congestion just hours before the start of the Sabbath.

The protesters shouted slogans demanding the release of detainees and actively disrupted the order at the site. Security forces, including Border Police and Judea and Samaria district officers, are working to disperse the demonstrators and restore traffic flow. The police confirmed the arrest and stated that investigations into the vehicle theft, which occurred in the Modi'in Illit area, are ongoing.

This incident comes amid heightened tensions surrounding draft evasion among the ultra-Orthodox community and follows recent legislative changes aimed at freezing arrests of draft dodgers. Authorities are preparing for further protests and maintaining a strong presence to manage public order in the area.