IDF Fails to Apprehend Draft Dodgers Amid Ultra-Orthodox Protests

Attempts by the Israeli military police to arrest three ultra-Orthodox draft dodgers in Bat Yam and Dimona on Wednesday night and Thursday morning were unsuccessful. Military sources blamed the Israel Police for the failures in enforcement operations. The incidents follow the arrest of two other ultra-Orthodox individuals in Beersheba and Eilat, who were subsequently sentenced to 20 days in military prison. In response, the Jerusalem Faction of the ultra-Orthodox community has threatened to demonstrate and block major roads in Jerusalem and the Gush Dan area starting at 4:00 PM.

The IDF had resumed arresting draft dodgers after a two-month hiatus in "home visits" by the military police. In Bat Yam, dozens of protesters arrived after the draft dodger was alerted, forcing the military police to leave without making an arrest. The protesters, described as "extreme Haredim," celebrated the failed operation with dancing. Similarly, in Dimona, military police attempting to arrest yeshiva students were met with a warning siren and a crowd of dozens of ultra-Orthodox individuals who prevented the arrests, leading to further celebrations.

These events echo a similar incident between Monday and Tuesday, where hundreds of ultra-Orthodox protesters prevented the military police from arresting a draft dodger in Modi'in. Protesters reportedly broke into the building where the individual lived and clashed with police. The draft dodger was later seen on a car roof with protesters, receiving candy. Military officials expressed frustration, stating that the Israel Police should provide more support during civilian operations. An Israel Police source, however, questioned the effectiveness of their involvement, asking, "We were called and came to reinforce as agreed, and this is what came out. Is everyone happy?"

No immediate comments were received from the IDF or the Israel Police regarding the night's events.