Ultra-Orthodox Protesters Block Highway 4 in Tel Aviv Area Over Draft Arrests

On Thursday evening, dozens of ultra-Orthodox protesters blocked Highway 4 near the Geha Interchange in the Tel Aviv metropolitan area, causing heavy traffic congestion. The demonstration was held in protest against the arrest of yeshiva students and other young men who refused to report for mandatory military service. Protesters sat on the road, preventing vehicles from passing.

Prior to the protest, police announced the closure of Highway 4 between the Aluf Sadeh and Em HaMoshavot interchanges in both directions and warned of additional traffic disruptions on Jabotinsky Road in Bnei Brak. Officers from the Dan District were deployed to direct traffic and maintain public order, advising drivers to seek alternative routes and avoid the protest areas.

Among the demonstrators were followers of Rabbi Zvi Friedman, known as the "Hertzpeniks," who had announced their intention to protest in Bnei Brak. Later on Thursday, another protest was planned outside Prison 10, organized by the Sanz Hasidic community and led by their Rebbe, in response to the arrest of a young man from their sect for draft evasion.

In response to the protests, Avigdor Lieberman, chairman of the Yisrael Beiteinu party, stated, "If those evading service can block roads in the peak heat of July, they have the endurance and ability to be excellent soldiers. In the next government, we will draft everyone."