Clashes Erupt in Jerusalem as Extremists Protest Haredi IDF Recruitment Event

On Tuesday evening, a recruitment event for Haredi youth outlining IDF service tracks took place on Jaffa Street in Jerusalem. Ahead of the event, calls circulated among anti-conscription groups urging protests, leading to dozens of extremists gathering outside the Shaarei Tzedek complex to disrupt the event. The protesters attempted to block entry and prevent interested Haredi youths from attending.

Violent incidents occurred during the demonstration, including extremists blocking a taxi carrying one of the event organizers, spitting at it, and kicking a participant. Witnesses reported protesters chasing attendees in nearby streets while shouting derogatory slogans such as "traitors." Retired Brigadier General Ofer Winter, invited to speak at the event, faced verbal abuse from the crowd as he exited, being called "despicable traitor," "heretic," and told he had no part in Judaism. Winter responded directly before leaving under police escort.

Police intervened to disperse the protesters and secure the event's continuation and safe exit for participants. Some protesters shouted insults like "Nazis" and "murderers" at officers. At least one protester was arrested for disorderly conduct and involvement in the clashes. The event concluded after police cleared the entrance and dispersed the crowd.