Ultra-Orthodox Draft Dodgers Flee to Ukraine to Avoid Arrest

Tens of thousands of Hasidic Jews, primarily from the Gur Hasidic dynasty, are preparing to travel to Uman, Ukraine, to visit the grave of Rabbi Nachman of Breslov, a pilgrimage that occurs annually. This year, however, a significant number of these individuals are considered draft dodgers by Israeli authorities and fear arrest upon attempting to depart from Ben Gurion Airport.

Members of the Gur community are reportedly exploring unconventional methods to circumvent law enforcement and facilitate travel for those evading military conscription. The Israeli military requires ultra-Orthodox men to enlist, a practice that many within the community resist, leading to a growing number of draft dodgers.

The situation highlights the ongoing tension between the Israeli government's efforts to integrate the ultra-Orthodox sector into national service and the community's traditional adherence to religious life, which often exempts them from conscription.