Ultra-Orthodox Protests Escalate with Violence, Stun Grenades, and Road Blockades

The ultra-Orthodox protests against the detention of deserters escalated into chaos on Israel’s roads, with Route 4 near Bnei Brak and the entrance to Jerusalem disrupted. Clashes between protesters and police forces intensified, leading to severe disruptions in public transportation and roadways. According to reports, the Jerusalem faction had announced the demonstrations, yet police response was delayed, with orders to act decisively only issued after the protests had already begun.

Footage from the protest sites shows police using force against Haredi demonstrators, including beatings and the forced evacuation of protesters from the roads. At the entrance to Jerusalem, stun grenades were reportedly deployed by police, despite a ban imposed by Minister of National Security Itamar Ben-Gvir on their use during demonstrations. This has raised concerns about the proportionality of force and the adherence to legal restrictions.

In Jerusalem, a vehicle was recorded speeding toward a group of protesters, resulting in a minor injury to an ultra-Orthodox youth. Shortly after, another truck was seen moving toward the demonstrators, further escalating tensions. The incident highlights the volatile nature of the protests and the potential for unintended harm amid the chaos.

During the demonstration near Bnei Brak, a passerby reportedly intervened in police operations by tearing the cable of a police P.A. system. Officers forcibly handcuffed the individual, who subsequently lost consciousness during the arrest. The circumstances of his loss of consciousness and the force used against him remain under investigation, underscoring the need for transparency and accountability in such encounters.

Police claimed that protesters blocked Route 4 and shouted derogatory terms, including “Nazi,” at officers. After failed attempts at dialogue, police deployed measures to disperse the crowd, arresting two individuals who allegedly attacked officers. The police continued efforts to clear the area, urging drivers to avoid the route and use alternative paths.

At the entrance to Jerusalem, police, YSM fighters, and TFA units worked to evacuate the area. During the clashes, officers identified a soldier surrounded by demonstrators and rescued him unharmed using dispersal tactics. Another suspect was arrested, illustrating the complex and often dangerous interactions between protesters and law enforcement.

The Shas party attempted to temper the situation, issuing a statement urging activists to avoid escalating tensions. However, the broader context of the protests reflects deep divisions within Israeli society, with religious and political factions grappling with issues of national identity, security, and justice. The events underscore the need for peaceful dialogue and the pursuit of justice that honors both the rights of individuals and the rule of law.

Source: Read the original report (translated from Hebrew)