Jerusalem Faction to Hold Large Protests Over Draft Dodger Arrests

The Jerusalem Faction, a Haredi group, is set to hold large-scale demonstrations across Israel on Thursday in response to recent arrests of draft dodgers. Protests are planned for 4:00 PM at the Chords Bridge entrance to Jerusalem, the Geha Interchange area, the entrance to Bnei Brak, and the entrance to Modi'in Illit. Smaller demonstrations are also expected at junctions in the north and south of the country, with thousands anticipated to participate. The Israel Airports Authority warned of potential traffic congestion and disruptions on roads leading to Ben Gurion Airport due to the protests, advising the public to stay updated via real-time media and navigation apps. On Tuesday night, hundreds of Haredi protesters gathered outside the home of a draft dodger in Modi'in protesting his arrest. The protesters attempted to breach his residence, and after clashes with police, the draft dodger was released. The police stated they had to act to "extract the soldiers" at the scene. Following his release, the draft dodger, Yairi Lieberman, recounted the incident in an interview, describing hearing police at his door around midnight and managing to call "Black Flag," an anti-draft organization, while preparing to be taken. The IDF Spokesperson confirmed that the Military Police conducted an operation in Modi'in to enforce the Security Service Law against draft dodgers. The IDF stated that a large number of rioters gathered to disrupt the Military Police's operation, interfere with the arrest, and endanger soldiers. The Jerusalem Faction had previously announced the large protests, offering a cash reward for the "welcome of released draft dodgers."