Ultra-Orthodox Protest Erupts Near Bnei Brak, Police Use Tear Gas

Approximately 200 ultra-Orthodox protesters blocked Highway 4 near Bnei Brak on Tuesday, protesting the arrest of a draft dodger. Police extensively used stun grenades to disperse the demonstrators. Magen David Adom reported one protester sustained minor injuries and was taken to the hospital. Protesters claimed stun grenades were thrown directly at them, with one describing the scene as resembling a "battlefield."

Police stated that three officers were injured during the protest, including one with a fractured rib and another hit in the head by a rock thrown by a protester. The police declared the demonstration illegal and noted that despite attempts at dialogue, lawbreakers continued to gather, shouting at officers.

Highway 4 was closed to traffic in both directions between the Aluf Sadeh and Ramat Gan interchanges. Police advised drivers to avoid the area and use alternative routes.

The Jerusalem Faction group accused Itamar Ben-Gvir of using the police for revenge over election results, asserting, "We will hold accountable all those responsible for this. The blood of Haredim is not to be spilled."