Haredi defector escapes the IDF, 2 soldiers wounded | WATCH

Tensions surrounding the conscription of Haredi men have reached a new high, with a rare overnight clash outside a military prison resulting in two soldiers being lightly injured and a detainee escaping. The incident occurred as police brace for more demonstrations planned for this evening.

According to a statement from the IDF Spokesperson’s Unit, a military vehicle transporting several conscription evaders was met by a protest at the Kfar Yona intersection. During the demonstration, protesters reportedly threw stones and sprayed tear gas at the vehicle. The two soldiers sustained minor injuries from the tear gas and were treated at the scene. In the ensuing chaos, one of the detainees managed to flee, prompting an ongoing manhunt. The IDF has condemned the violence and vowed to enforce the law as required.

Planned Protests and Road Closures

The overnight incident precedes a planned series of protests, which have become a regular occurrence on Thursday evenings. Police are on high alert and have announced traffic disruptions in anticipation of a major demonstration scheduled for this afternoon around 4:00 PM local time.

According to a police spokesperson, officials are preparing for traffic changes and potential road closures on Highway 4 between Aluf Sadeh and Em HaMoshavot in both directions. There is also a possibility of significant traffic congestion and blockages along Jabotinsky Street in Bnei Brak.

Police have advised the public to avoid the affected areas and to seek alternative routes. Officers from the Dan district will be on-site to direct traffic and maintain public order.

The ongoing demonstrations highlight a deep and unresolved societal conflict in Israel. While the state demands that all eligible citizens serve in the military, a large portion of the Haredi community believes its members should be exempt from military service to dedicate their lives to religious study.