Dozens Evade Draft Evasion Bans to Reach Ukraine's Uman

Tens of thousands of Breslov Hasidic followers are expected to travel to Uman, Ukraine, next week for prayers at the tomb of Rabbi Nachman of Breslov ahead of Rosh Hashanah. Israeli authorities have issued travel bans against dozens of individuals who are subject to military conscription, yet estimates suggest that at least several dozen have already managed to circumvent these orders and reach Uman.

The primary challenge is anticipated upon their return to Israel. Rumors within the Breslov community describe various methods for evading border control, including exiting through the Taba border crossing to Sinai, breaching border fences, or using a ruse involving booking a domestic flight to Eilat and proceeding directly to international flights from Terminal 1.

Beyond the logistical hurdles of their return, there is significant concern that individuals whose departure is blocked at Ben Gururion Airport might stage protests and attempt to disrupt airport operations. Such actions could reignite intense unrest within the Haredi (ultra-Orthodox) community.