Radical Haredim Block Major Highway During Rush Hour

Radical Haredim from the Jerusalem Faction are currently blocking Highway 4 in both directions at the Yavne interchange, protesting the arrest of a draft dodger. The demonstration occurred without prior warning, disrupting traffic during peak morning commute hours. These protests have become a regular occurrence in recent months, though they typically involve advance notice and planning. For instance, about a week and a half ago, the same faction staged large protests in Jerusalem and the Gush Dan area, which led to the closure of Highway 4 in both directions, the Jerusalem light rail, and the entrance to the city via the Chords Bridge. Those demonstrations concluded, and the roads were reopened.

This protest follows the recent passage of a law by the Knesset to cancel arrest warrants for draft dodgers. However, the High Court of Justice issued an interim order freezing the law due to four petitions filed against it.