Extremist Haredim Attempt to Breach IDF Building in Bnei Brak, Two Arrested
Translated & summarized from Maariv by baba
Two extremist Haredim were arrested in Bnei Brak on Thursday after attempting to break into a building used by an IDF unit. This was the second such incident this week targeting soldiers in the "KODKOD" program, which integrates Haredi men into technological roles. The program, launched in 2023, currently has about 1,000 soldiers and is expected to expand further.
The story in 6 lines · by baba
- Two extremist Haredim were arrested in Bnei Brak for attempting to breach an IDF building.
- This was the second attempt to enter the building within a week.
- The building houses soldiers from the IDF's "KODKOD" program.
- The "KODKOD" program allows Haredi men to serve in technological roles.
- The program, established in 2023, currently has about 1,000 soldiers.
- IDF estimates the program will grow to 1,100-1,200 soldiers by the end of 2026.
Police and Border Police forces were deployed to Bnei Brak on Thursday evening after a group of extremist Haredim attempted to break into a building housing an Israel Defense Forces (IDF) unit. Two individuals were arrested for disturbing the peace and taken for questioning. The incident concluded without further escalation, according to police.
This marks the second such attempt to breach the building within a week. A similar protest occurred on Monday, with demonstrators trying to enter the same location. The building houses soldiers participating in the "KODKOD" program, which allows Haredi men aged 23 and older, deemed unfit for combat roles, to serve in technological positions within the IDF. Participants in this program are not required to wear uniforms.
The KODKOD program, launched in 2023, has been expanding, currently comprising approximately 1,000 soldiers, with about 20% still in training. The IDF estimates that the program's numbers will grow to between 1,100 and 1,200 by the end of 2026, with hundreds of new soldiers enlisting annually. Despite the program's growth, protests against it have resurfaced at the soldiers' place of service.
