Breslov Hasidim Protest at Ben Gurion Airport Over Military Draft Travel Restrictions

On Thursday night, dozens of Breslov Hasidim gathered at Terminal 3 of Ben Gurion Airport to protest restrictions preventing draft-dodgers and military service candidates from traveling to Uman, Ukraine, for Rosh Hashanah. The demonstrators demanded that authorities open the airport gates to allow these individuals to visit the grave of Rabbi Nachman of Breslov, a pilgrimage considered essential by the community. During the protest, participants held signs and chanted slogans opposing the military draft, including "To Uman and not to the army," calling for full freedom of movement for all travelers.

The protest reflects growing tensions surrounding the conscription of yeshiva students, with nearly double the number of draft candidates and draft-dodgers this year within the ultra-Orthodox community. Concerns about travel delays and arrests at the border have sparked unprecedented unrest among Breslov Hasidim. Community sources warn that as Rosh Hashanah approaches, the likelihood of escalated protests, riots, and further waves of demonstrations by draft-dodgers prevented from flying is expected to increase significantly.