Dozens of protesters from the Jerusalem Faction blocked the Coca-Cola junction on Highway 4 on Wednesday morning, demonstrating against the arrest of yeshiva students who had refused to report to enlistment offices. The protest began unexpectedly, under heavy secrecy, at an unusual hour, with the apparent aim of causing maximum disruption as commuters were heading to work.
The road closure caused severe traffic chaos across Bnei Brak and nearby cities. Large police and Yasam riot-control units from the Tel Aviv District were rushed to the scene and tried to keep the protesters from entering the roadway and stopping traffic.
During the confrontations, protesters complained to the area commander, Chief Superintendent Elad Klein, about what they called police violence. Klein replied, according to the report, "Come at a time that you coordinate with us, and everything will be fine."
Police said the demonstration was illegal, that officers were on site directing traffic to alternate routes, and that a police officer had warned the protesters before any enforcement steps were taken. Highway 4 was fully closed in both directions from Em HaMoshavot Interchange to Aluf Sadeh Interchange, and police urged drivers to use alternate roads and follow navigation apps for updates. They also said they support the right to protest, but will not allow public disorder or disruptions that endanger the public.
