Ultra-Orthodox Outrage Over Draft Evasion Arrests Sparks Mass Protest Plans
Translated & summarized from Arutz Sheva by baba
The arrest of two yeshiva students, one an American citizen, has led to widespread outrage in the ultra-Orthodox community and plans for major protests. The Jerusalem Faction announced large demonstrations and traffic blockades, prompting a significant police response and traffic advisories for the Gush Dan area. Police stated they will uphold public order and prevent illegal disruptions.
The story in 5 lines · by baba
- Two yeshiva students, including an American citizen, were arrested for draft evasion, sparking ultra-Orthodox anger.
- The Jerusalem Faction announced plans for large protests and traffic disruptions across Israel.
- Police are preparing for significant traffic closures and congestion, particularly in the Gush Dan area.
- Israel Lunderer, an American citizen, and Alon Smadja are the two students who were arrested.
- Police will maintain public order and prevent illegal disruptions during the planned protests.
The arrest of two yeshiva students, including one with American citizenship, has ignited fury within the ultra-Orthodox community, prompting a significant police mobilization. The Jerusalem Faction, an ultra-Orthodox group, has announced plans for large-scale demonstrations and traffic disruptions across Israel.
One of those arrested is Israel Lunderer, an Avrech from the Bialla Hasidic dynasty who holds both American and Israeli residency. He was apprehended by military police and is reportedly being assisted by activist Shimon Shisha and lawyer Menachem Stauber.
Another student, Alon Smadja from Jerusalem's Beit Vagan neighborhood, was arrested overnight between Tuesday and Wednesday. According to reports, military police informed him that a package awaited him at his home, only to arrest him upon arrival. Smadja is represented by lawyers from organizations that aid arrested Haredi men.
In response to anticipated large protests in Bnei Brak around 3 PM, the Israel Police announced significant traffic changes and a broad operational deployment in the Gush Dan area. Route 4 will be closed to traffic between Aluf Sde and the If HaMoshavot interchange in both directions, and Jabotinsky Street in Bnei Brak is expected to experience severe congestion and localized closures.
The police are advising drivers to avoid the area, use alternative routes, and stay updated on traffic conditions. While acknowledging the right to protest as a democratic cornerstone, the police stated that public order will be maintained, and illegal blocking of major traffic routes or endangering the public will not be permitted.