The Jerusalem Faction issued an official statement Wednesday morning after violent scenes at a protest on Highway 4 near the entrance to Bnei Brak. The group said police used “humiliating and unrestrained violence” against yeshiva students and other ultra-Orthodox demonstrators who were protesting what it called an existential threat to the world of Torah.
In its statement, the faction accused “Ben Gvir’s police” of acting with “humiliating and unrestrained violence, using harsh means and shocking methods that go beyond the law.” It added, “The feeling is clear and painful, when it comes to the ultra-Orthodox public, anything is permitted.” The faction said, “The goal will not be achieved. You will not succeed in breaking anyone through violence and coercive methods.”
The protest was a spontaneous blockade by members of the faction’s Ratzpinik stream, held against the arrest of yeshiva students who refused to report to recruitment offices. According to the report, large police and Yasam riot units arrived to clear the road, but witnesses and videos described severe beatings, draggings across the asphalt, blood, torn clothing, and injured demonstrators. Eyewitnesses also said stun grenades were used and, in some cases, thrown directly at seated protesters.
The faction said it had already sent a sharp warning letter to the police chief last week and warned it would soon petition the High Court of Justice if the conduct continued. Police said the protest was not coordinated or approved in advance and was held unexpectedly during rush hour.
