Orthodox Protesters Clash With Police Over Draft Dodger Arrest

The student was initially stopped by volunteer police officers for driving a car without license plates and instructed to report to the Kfar Saba station. When he arrived around 1 p.m. on Wednesday, officers discovered he was classified as a draft evader, leading to his transfer into military police custody.

Dozens of demonstrators gathered outside the station to try to prevent the transfer. Protesters initiated an unsanctioned demonstration, blocking a main road in both directions near the police facility and disrupting traffic. The 'Tzeva Shahor' alert system, used to mobilize immediate warnings regarding draft-related arrests of yeshiva students, was activated. Police officers worked to clear the road, redirect traffic and advised drivers to avoid the area. Efforts were also reported to secure the student's release.

The incident follows recent draft-related arrests across the country. According to Kikar HaShabbat, two other yeshiva students were recently arrested near Eilat for traffic violations and draft evasion, while 42 Chabad students were detained the previous day upon returning from Brooklyn, 40 of whom were released after agreeing to enlist.