Protesters Clash With Police in Bnei Brak Over IDF Tech Program for Haredim
Translated & summarized from Ynet by baba
Police arrested two protesters in Bnei Brak who attempted to breach an IDF tech program building for Haredi men. The "Kodkod" program trains Haredi youth in software and cyber fields, offering non-uniform service and professional training. The incident occurred amidst ongoing opposition from some Haredi leaders and individuals who view the IDF as a threat to their community's religious values. The program, launched in 2023, currently serves about 1,000 soldiers and is projected to grow.
The story in 6 lines · by baba
- Police arrested two protesters attempting to break into an IDF tech program building in Bnei Brak.
- The "Kodkod" program trains Haredi men in software and cyber fields, offering non-uniform service.
- Protesters shouted "Nazis" at police during clashes outside the building.
- Prominent Haredi rabbis have previously denounced the program, calling it a threat to the community.
- The "Kodkod" program, launched in 2023, currently has about 1,000 participants.
- The incident concluded with police stating the situation was under control.
Police arrested two individuals in Bnei Brak on Sunday after they attempted to break into an office building housing "Kodkod," an Israel Defense Forces (IDF) program that trains Haredi men in software and cyber fields. The protesters, estimated by one security guard to be around 200, gathered outside the building, with some managing to enter and break down a door before confronting police. During the clashes, protesters were heard shouting "Nazis" at the officers.
The "Kodkod" program, launched in 2023, is a prestigious technological initiative designed for Haredi men aged 23 and over who are not eligible for combat roles. It offers tailored, non-uniform service and professional training, aiming to integrate hundreds of Haredi youth annually. The program has seen rapid growth, currently involving approximately 1,000 soldiers, with projections to reach 1,100-1,200 by the end of 2026.
Opponents of the program, who describe themselves as protesting "the decree of destruction of conscription," view the IDF as an institution attempting to "desecrate the people of Israel." They are actively campaigning against initiatives like "Kodkod" because they appeal to many young Haredi men by offering valuable future career prospects. Prominent Haredi spiritual leaders, including the rebbes of Gur, Belz, Vizhnitz, and Sanz, issued a joint letter last month denouncing the program and similar initiatives that allow service without uniforms, warning followers not to participate.
The security guard described the incident as escalating quickly, noting the presence of a nearby wedding hall, which he suggested might be part of the protesters' usual activities. The police stated that the situation was under control and the event had concluded, with the arrested individuals transferred for investigation.
The same event, reported separately by each outlet. Open a few to compare what different newsrooms emphasize — and what they leave out.
Centre 3Haredi 1Arab 1
Not the same event — other stories that share this one’s people, places, or theme: background, reactions, and follow-ups.
