Yeshiva Students Receive Emergency Guidelines Amid Arrest Fears During Menachem Av
As thousands of yeshiva students and Torah workers enter the "bein hazmanim" break of the month of Menachem Av, the "Tzeva Shachor" organization, in cooperation with "Notnim Gev," has issued urgent guidelines to prepare for increased law enforcement activity and potential arrests. Distributed in yeshiva halls, the emergency notice reiterates the unequivocal directive from Torah leaders forbidding attendance at military recruitment offices under any circumstances. It outlines strict protocols for encounters with police and military police, including a firm instruction not to open the door if military police arrive at home, to maintain silence, avoid dialogue, and immediately contact the "Tzeva Shachor" emergency hotline.
The guidelines emphasize calm behavior during any field encounters, advising against fleeing or unnecessary confrontations and requiring identification only when legally obligated. Immediate contact with the emergency center is mandated if there is any fear of detention or handing over. The organizations strongly warn against visiting recruitment offices or military processing centers without prior professional consultation and caution against "ma'acherim" (middlemen) and lawyers offering paid assistance, noting many have fallen into traps resulting in arrests and financial loss.
In case of arrest, the strictest rule is to exercise the right to remain silent and not answer any questions until receiving legal advice through the emergency center. The organizations stress that military disciplinary proceedings are swift, conducted without legal representation, and require detailed preparation beforehand rather than attempting to persuade the officer independently.
In a unique gesture, "Tzeva Shachor" announced a special campaign offering a luxury coffee machine to any yeshiva student who experiences a military police visit at their home. The organizations conclude by encouraging strengthening Torah study and prayer during these times, affirming that Torah is a protector and savior. Emergency hotlines are provided for 24-hour assistance: "Tzeva Shachor" at 073-888-1234 and "Notnim Gev" at 04-313-2000.
