Netanyahu Fails to Stop Haredi Protests Against Draft Evasion Arrests
Translated & summarized from Mako by baba
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's attempts to halt Haredi protests against draft evader arrests failed. He asked Haredi parties to intervene, fearing the demonstrations harmed his Likud campaign by uniting opposition forces. The parties denied responsibility, attributing the protests to the "Jerusalem Faction," which is challenging them politically. The demonstrations involved violence and traffic disruptions, with three arrests made.
The story in 6 lines · by baba
- Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's efforts to stop Haredi protests against draft evader arrests were unsuccessful.
- Netanyahu believed the protests harmed the Likud campaign by uniting the opposition "Change Bloc."
- Haredi parties denied responsibility for the protests, blaming the "Jerusalem Faction."
- The "Jerusalem Faction" is reportedly challenging established Haredi parties with a new political entity.
- Protesters clashed with police, blocked traffic, and three arrests were made.
- Extremist Haredi elements warned of escalating protests if draft evader arrests continue.
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu attempted to prevent ongoing Haredi (ultra-Orthodox) demonstrations across Israel against the arrest of draft evaders, but his efforts were unsuccessful. Through his advisors, Netanyahu contacted Haredi political parties, urging them to call off the protests. He believed the demonstrations were detrimental to the Likud party's campaign, as they allowed leaders of the "Change Bloc" to unite around the issue of military service, thereby strengthening their political position.
However, the Haredi parties expressed surprise at Netanyahu's request, stating they have no connection to the "Jerusalem Faction," the ultra-Orthodox group responsible for organizing the protests. This faction is reportedly challenging the established Haredi parties, including through a new party called "Black Color." Extremist Haredi elements have also communicated that the protests will escalate if the arrests of draft evaders continue.
The protests, which occurred on Thursday, lasted about two hours and involved violence, clashes with police, and attempts to run people over. Demonstrators blocked major traffic routes, including the Jerusalem light rail and Highway 4. Police reported arresting three suspects for assaulting officers.
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