Haredi Protesters Block Major Road, Police Deploy Force

The demonstration, which began around 4:00 PM, was organized by the ultra-Orthodox Jerusalem Faction to protest the arrest of draft evaders. The group, which opposes military conscription for ultra-Orthodox men who are traditionally exempt from service, had announced plans for protests across the Gush Dan and Jerusalem regions, with Bnei Brak serving as a central focal point. Additional demonstrations were also anticipated near Ben Gurion Airport.

In response to the gathering, Israel Police closed Highway 4. According to Hamal, the closure was in both directions between the Aluf Sadeh and Om HaNetziv interchanges, while Davar reported the affected area stretched between Aluf Sadeh and Umm al-Fahm. Demonstrators blocked the road at the Coca-Cola junction, causing heavy traffic jams as police officers redirected drivers to alternative routes. Authorities had also warned of potential congestion and closures on Jabotinsky Road within Bnei Brak.

Superintendent Yuval Shavit, the commander of the Bnei Brak police station, declared the protest illegal. While authorities acknowledged that the right to protest is a cornerstone of a democratic state, police stated they would not tolerate public disorder, disruptions to freedom of movement, or any actions that endanger public safety.