Israeli Police Prepare to Block Highway 4 for Protest by Extreme Haredi Group Against Draft Arrests

Israeli police are preparing to block Highway 4 between the Aluf Sadeh and Em HaMoshavot interchanges starting at 4 p.m. on July 16, ahead of a planned protest at 5 p.m. by a group known as the "Hertzafnikim," followers of Rabbi Zvi Friedman who split from the Jerusalem Faction and are considered more extreme. The protest is against the arrests of draft evaders in the ultra-Orthodox community.

Authorities expect significant traffic congestion and possible additional blockages on Zabotinsky Street in Bnei Brak, near the protest area. Police from the Dan district will be deployed to manage traffic and maintain public order. The police urged drivers to avoid the area and use alternative routes.

The police emphasized their recognition of the right to protest as a democratic foundation but warned they will not tolerate disorder or disruptions to public movement that could endanger safety. This demonstration follows previous protests by the same group, including a recent morning blockade of Geha Road that police cleared by force, an operation that drew political criticism and controversy involving Public Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir.

Ben-Gvir attempted to remove the police station commander involved in that incident, which was captured on video showing the commander lifting a protester off the road, tearing the protester's pants. The current planned protest is expected to cause major disruptions in central Israel's traffic flow due to the group's tactics and the location chosen.

Summary: On July 16, Israeli police will block Highway 4 near Bnei Brak for a protest by the extremist "Hertzafnikim" group against draft evader arrests, anticipating heavy traffic disruptions and deploying forces to maintain order.