Orthodox Protesters Clash With Police Near Bnei Brak; Ben-Gvir Criticizes Response

Clashes erupted Thursday afternoon between Haredi protesters and police near Bnei Brak, resulting in three officers being injured, according to police reports. Authorities stated that demonstrators refused to disperse after the gathering was declared illegal, and that stones were thrown. One officer sustained a head injury, while another suffered broken ribs. The protest was against the detention of yeshiva students who had not responded to their conscription orders. The demonstration led to the closure of Route 4 in both directions between the Aluf Sadeh and Em HaMoshavot interchanges, as well as Jabotinsky Street in Bnei Brak. Protests also extended to the tramway tracks in Petah Tikva, disrupting service, prompting police intervention to clear the tracks. Minister of National Security Itamar Ben-Gvir strongly criticized the police response and blamed Inspector General Danny Levy, just two days after the legislative elections. Ben-Gvir accused Levy of acting to "please the left" and curry favor with Yaïr Golan, suggesting a shift in attitude towards the Haredi population post-election. "Levy, who did everything I asked him to for a year and a half, is now acting illegally against the Haredi after the elections and making them his punching bag," Ben-Gvir stated, characterizing the events as an attempt to "please the left." The police, in their statement, affirmed the right to protest but declared zero tolerance for violence against officers or public endangerment through blockades.