Israel Halts Arrests of Haredi Draft Dodgers Amid Protests
Reports indicate that the Israeli military and police have suspended preemptive arrests of Haredi men who evade mandatory military service. This decision was reportedly made in August following widespread Haredi protests that caused significant national disruptions. The issue has become a major political and legal battleground in Israel.
In recent months, the arrests of Haredi youths refusing conscription sparked large-scale protests, including road blockades and clashes with security forces. Police sources suggest the military initiated the suspension, with no current plans to resume these operations. However, the Israeli military denies a complete halt, stating that military police continue arrests, particularly at border crossings and in urban centers.
Approximately 80,000 Haredi men between 18 and 24 are currently eligible for military service but have not enlisted. The Attorney General's office has urged authorities to intensify enforcement of conscription orders, including arresting draft evaders.
This development follows a September Supreme Court ruling that unanimously invalidated a law intended to temporarily shield Haredi draft dodgers from arrest, deeming it a violation of equality before the law.
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