Six Ultra-Orthodox Men With Draft Orders Arrested at Ben Gurion Airport

Six ultra-Orthodox Jewish men were arrested at Ben Gurion Airport (Natbag) in two separate incidents as they attempted to leave Israel. Two were apprehended at Terminal 1 and four at Terminal 3. Upon inspection, it was discovered that all six had outstanding military draft orders, which legally prevent their departure from the country. They were transferred to the Population and Immigration Authority for processing.

The arrests come shortly after security at the airport was enhanced. This increased security, a joint effort involving the Airport Authority, Military Police, and the Population and Immigration Authority, was implemented due to a rise in attempts by draft dodgers to leave Israel. The heightened security measures are particularly relevant as thousands of pilgrims are expected to travel to Uman, Ukraine, for Rosh Hashanah.

The enhanced security plan, developed with the Ministry of Transportation and the IDF, includes reinforcing screening at passport control before the duty-free area. Military police and Ministry of Transportation representatives will work alongside immigration officials at these checkpoints. This decision followed professional discussions aimed at closing loopholes that allowed individuals prohibited from leaving Israel to do so.

Enforcement officials noted a recent trend where draft evaders, barred from leaving, would attach themselves to travelers cleared for departure. Exploiting the airport's congestion, they attempted to pass through checkpoints without passport stamping, aiming to reach the aircraft area. The increased security presence and a dedicated arrest vehicle at the airport are intended to counter this specific evasion tactic and manage the anticipated surge in travelers to Uman for the upcoming holiday.