Ultra-Orthodox Protesters Block Roads in Central Israel Over Draft Evasion Arrests
Translated & summarized from Makor Rishon by baba
An ultra-Orthodox faction called the 'Hertzpenikim' initiated surprise protests and road blockades across central Israel on Sunday, ahead of schedule. The demonstrations protest the arrest and imprisonment of two yeshiva students for draft evasion. Major traffic disruptions occurred on Route 4 and other key arteries, with police deploying extra forces. The group seeks to pressure authorities regarding the detention of Torah students.
The story in 5 lines · by baba
- Ultra-Orthodox 'Hertzpenikim' faction launched surprise road blockades in central Israel on Sunday.
- Protests are a response to the arrest and 20-day military prison sentence of two yeshiva students.
- The group aims to pressure authorities by disrupting traffic on major routes like Route 4.
- Significant traffic jams were reported, particularly near Gan Yavne and Bnei Brak.
- Police have increased their presence to manage the demonstrations.
A faction of ultra-Orthodox men, known as the 'Hertzpenikim' and led by Rabbi Tzvi Friedman, launched surprise protests and road blockades across central Israel on Sunday, earlier than initially planned. The demonstrations, which began "in the coming hour" on Sunday morning, are a response to the arrest and 20-day military prison sentence of two yeshiva students for failing to report for service. One of the arrested students is Yedidya Mizrahi, from the 'Or Hachaim' yeshiva.
The protesters view the arrests as a deliberate attack on yeshiva students and aim to pressure military authorities by disrupting traffic. The 'Hertzpenikim' are described as the most activist and uncompromising wing of the Jerusalem Faction, often favoring immediate, disruptive actions over more calculated approaches.
Significant traffic disruptions were reported on Route 4 near the Gan Yavne interchange, with further blockades expected in Bnei Brak, at the Geha junction, and other major routes. The police have deployed additional forces to manage the protests. Expected blockade points include Route 4 in both directions near Bnei Brak, the Geha junction, the Gannot interchange, and access roads to Giv'at Shmuel. Drivers are advised to anticipate severe delays.
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