Breslav Hasidic Rabbis Advise Draft Dodgers to Avoid Ben Gurion Airport

Spiritual leaders of Breslav Hasidism have urged young men with unresolved military draft status to refrain from coming to Ben Gurion Airport this year, ahead of the mass pilgrimage to Uman. According to a September 6 report by "A-Yom," the rabbis highlighted that military police and immigration service checkpoints will be active in the airport area in the lead-up to Rosh Hashanah. Consequently, they are advising individuals identified as draft dodgers, or those with arrest warrants, draft notices, or travel bans, to avoid the airport altogether.

The rabbis stated in their appeal that the appearance of someone sought by military authorities at the airport could result in immediate arrest, cancellation of their trip, severe distress for family members, and a "terrible desecration of God's name." They also encouraged pilgrims to be patient during their journey to Uman, which involves travel through several countries with numerous stops. The appeal emphasized the need for pilgrims to follow instructions from organizers and security forces, act responsibly, and remain calm.