New Ultra-Orthodox Party Launches Campaign with March for Draft Dodgers

A new ultra-Orthodox political party, "Tzeva Shahor" (Black Color), launched its campaign in Bnei Brak on Sunday evening with a procession honoring 160 Haredi men who were imprisoned for refusing military conscription during the High Holidays. The party's central platform is exemption from military service for the Haredi community, aiming to attract Haredi voters disillusioned with established parties that have failed to secure such exemptions.

The organizers kept the event's political nature secret beforehand, fearing interference from police or rabbis aligned with traditional Haredi parties. The procession, which included dancing in the streets, was revealed as the party's official launch event. The party hopes to gain tens of thousands of votes from disaffected Haredi citizens.

During the event, media crews were reportedly attacked by the crowd. One of the party's founders, Yaakov Chaim Miller, stated earlier this month that many rabbis support their movement and that they intend to win seats in the Knesset.