Story perspectives

Bus Hits Protesters in Jerusalem, One Teen Killed

1/7/2026

Center

Protesters Struck in Jerusalem

A bus struck protesters in Jerusalem during an anti-conscription demonstration on January 6, 2026, killing 14-year-old Yosef Eisenthal and injuring three others.
The bus driver was arrested after claiming he was attacked by rioters blocking the road.
Thousands protested the draft law as lawmakers from the Haredi community condemned the incident, attributing it to incitement.
The rally organized by prominent Haredi rabbis escalated into chaos with fires set and clashes.

Left

Ultra-Orthodox Enlistment Shift

During anti-conscription protests in Israel, hundreds of ultra-Orthodox men enlisted in the Israel Defense Forces (IDF).
Demonstrators confronted recruits, labeled them "murderers," and tried to block induction centers.
Police used water cannons and made arrests as the protests continued.
IDF officials noted increased family involvement and more recruits choosing combat roles, signaling a shift in attitudes.
The events underscore ongoing political debates over military exemptions for the ultra-Orthodox community.

History

Historical Context

Since the establishment of Israel in 1948, tensions have persisted between the state and the Haredi community regarding military service exemptions. The Tal Law, enacted in 2002, allowed yeshiva students to defer service, but a 2012 Supreme Court ruling deemed this unequal. Recent protests against mandatory conscription echo decades of conflict, highlighting deep societal divisions and shaping Israel's political landscape.

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Protesters Struck in Jerusalem

A bus struck protesters in Jerusalem during an anti-conscription demonstration on January 6, 2026, killing 14-year-old Yosef Eisenthal and injuring three others.
The bus driver was arrested after claiming he was attacked by rioters blocking the road.
Thousands protested the draft law as lawmakers from the Haredi community condemned the incident, attributing it to incitement.
The rally organized by prominent Haredi rabbis escalated into chaos with fires set and clashes.

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