Haredi Anti-Conscription Protest Disrupts Traffic Near Bnei Brak

On December 28, 2025, a significant anti-conscription protest organized by the Haredi Jerusalem Faction took place near Bnei Brak, blocking Highway 4 at multiple locations for over two hours. The demonstration was in response to the arrest of yeshiva students who had evaded military draft orders. Police intervened to disperse the protesters, resulting in the arrest of three individuals for rioting. Officers faced challenges in clearing the roadway as demonstrators resisted removal, leading to clashes between police and protesters.

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The protest was primarily organized by members of the Peleg Yerushalmi faction, a hardline group within the Haredi community known for its strong opposition to military service. Demonstrators expressed their grievances by chanting slogans such as “We will die rather than be drafted” and labeled the detainees as “hostages.” They also criticized political parties, warning that Shas and Degel HaTorah could face electoral repercussions for their stance on conscription.

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The protests coincided with discussions in the Knesset Foreign Affairs and Defense Committee regarding a draft exemption bill proposed by committee chairman Boaz Bismuth. This proposal, if passed, would exempt over 95% of ultra-Orthodox men from conscription, a move criticized by legal experts. Deputy attorneys general have indicated that the bill could entrench inequality between those who serve and those who do not, raising constitutional concerns.

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The Israel Police issued a statement emphasizing the importance of lawful protests while asserting their commitment to maintaining public order. They noted that while the right to protest is a cornerstone of democracy, they would not tolerate actions that disrupt public safety or freedom of movement. Despite the police's efforts to manage the situation, heavy traffic congestion ensued, affecting routes leading to and from Bnei Brak.

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Critics of the protest and the broader anti-conscription movement argue that such demonstrations disrupt public life and undermine the rule of law. The police have faced scrutiny for their handling of the protests, particularly regarding the use of force during arrests. The ongoing tensions reflect a deeper societal divide regarding military service and the responsibilities of different community groups within Israel.

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• “We will die rather than be drafted,” — Protester

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• “50%, have you gone mad? The draft law equals consent to genocide.” — Protester

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• “The Israel Police views the right to protest as a cornerstone of a democratic state and allows demonstrations as long as they are conducted within the law,” — Israel Police Statement

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The Jerusalem Faction has indicated plans for further nationwide protests in response to the arrests of draft evaders, suggesting that tensions surrounding military conscription within the Haredi community are likely to persist. The outcome of the Knesset discussions on the draft exemption bill will also play a crucial role in shaping future protests and community responses.

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