Ultra-Orthodox Protest Erupts in Jerusalem, Disrupting Light Rail
Translated & summarized from Kipa by baba
Dozens of ultra-Orthodox protesters blocked Jerusalem's light rail on Sunday evening following the arrest of draft evader Yairi Lieberman. Police used a "skunk" water cannon and stun grenades to disperse the crowd. Lieberman was sentenced to 20 days in military prison. Protest groups plan further demonstrations against draft enforcement.
The story in 5 lines · by baba
- Dozens of ultra-Orthodox protesters blocked Jerusalem's light rail on Sunday.
- Police used a "skunk" water cannon and stun grenades to disperse the demonstration.
- The protest followed the arrest of draft evader Yairi Lieberman.
- Lieberman was sentenced to 20 days in military prison.
- Protest groups plan further demonstrations against draft enforcement.
Dozens of ultra-Orthodox protesters blocked the light rail at the Shivtei Israel station in Jerusalem on Sunday evening, protesting the arrest of a draft evader. The demonstrators clashed with police who arrived to disperse the protest, leading to the use of a "skunk" water cannon and stun grenades.
The arrested individual, identified as Yairi Lieberman, was apprehended by military police earlier that day while boarding a bus with his bride. They were on their way to a "Shiva Brachot" celebration, a post-wedding feast, just days after their marriage. Authorities reportedly tracked Lieberman via his mobile phone before his arrest. He was subsequently transferred to a military prison and later sentenced by a judge to 20 days of detention.
Ultra-Orthodox anti-draft protest organizations have indicated that demonstrations are expected to continue following Lieberman's arrest, mirroring previous protests and road blockades that have occurred after similar arrests of draft evaders.
This is not the first time Lieberman's case has sparked unrest. In early October, military police attempted to arrest him at his residence. Hundreds of ultra-Orthodox individuals were mobilized to the scene, resulting in severe confrontations between protesters and police. Some protesters entered the building and clashed with officers. The police eventually left without making an arrest. Lieberman later appeared on a vehicle's roof with protesters, receiving sweets from participants.
