Senior Police Official Accuses Commissioner of Bowing to Left After Ultra-Orthodox Clashes

A senior police official has accused Police Commissioner Dany Levy of attempting to appease the left-wing political bloc following the right-wing's election losses, suggesting Levy is already preparing for Yair Golan's potential appointment as National Security Minister. This statement comes amid sharp criticism of the police's actions during clashes with ultra-Orthodox protesters on Highway 4 near Bnei Brak.

The confrontations erupted during a demonstration by hundreds of ultra-Orthodox men protesting the arrest of a draft-dodging yeshiva student. Police declared the protest illegal and used stun grenades to disperse the crowd. Videos from the scene showed injured and bleeding protesters, including an individual with special needs.

Public officials have condemned the police's conduct. Yaakov Asher, Chairman of the United Torah Judaism party, stated that while his faction opposes road blockades, the documented footage necessitates an investigation. He called the level of force used "a red line" and urged Commissioner Levy to summon officers involved for a hearing.

Conversely, the police maintain that protesters blocked the Geha junction, ignored officers' orders, and threw stones at them. According to a police statement, an officer sustained a head injury from a thrown stone. The police commander at the scene declared the protest unlawful and ordered its dispersal.

The clashes led to the closure of Highway 4 in both directions between the Aluf Sadeh and Ha'em Ha'moshavot interchanges, causing significant traffic disruptions. Traffic police were deployed to the area, advising drivers to seek alternative routes.