Police Release Video of Haredi Protester Attacking Detective during Anti-Draft Protest

Israeli police released video footage Thursday showing a haredi protester violently attacking a female detective during Wednesday's chaotic Route 4 demonstration clearance — precisely 24 hours after the force came under withering public criticism for officers' brutal treatment of demonstrators.

The timing of the release has sparked immediate questions about whether police are attempting to create a narrative of symmetry following widespread condemnation of officers who were filmed dragging protesters and tearing their clothing during the Jerusalem Faction demonstration near Bnei Brak.

According to the police statement, the incident occurred Wednesday morning as officers worked to clear the major traffic artery blocked by protesters opposing haredi military conscription. The footage shows a 26-year-old man from Bnei Brak approaching from behind as the detective and a police officer attempted to remove a protester physically blocking the roadway.

The suspect allegedly grabbed the detective, causing direct injury during the struggle. The detective sustained wounds requiring medical treatment and was evacuated to a hospital. The suspect was arrested at the scene and, following interrogation, was ordered into custody. A Tel Aviv Magistrate's Court hearing Thursday morning extended his detention by an additional day.

"Police view with utmost severity any attempt to harm officers fulfilling their duties and working to maintain public order," the force stated. "We will continue to act firmly and uncompromisingly against lawbreakers who raise a hand against public servants."

The video release comes amid an escalating confrontation between authorities and haredi communities over military draft enforcement. Wednesday's Route 4 protest featured violent clashes that drew sharp rebukes from across the political spectrum, including from Knesset Member Yinon Azoulay of the haredi Shas party, who condemned footage showing the Bnei Brak police commander dragging a protester and ripping his pants.

Analyst Yishai Cohen launched a blistering attack on police conduct, arguing that "an officer who uses force and authority against a citizen who cannot respond, that is criminal violence." Cohen also raised concerns about selective enforcement regarding road blockages, noting disparate treatment of different protest movements.

Only after approximately twelve hours of mounting criticism did police issue their first official response to the brutality allegations, announcing they would investigate "exceptional incidents" that occurred during the clearance operation. The detective assault video emerged another twelve hours later.

Police emphasized that officers encountered "violent resistance from lawbreakers who blocked traffic and refused to obey police orders" during Wednesday's operation. The force maintains it will continue enforcing public order while investigating any conduct that crossed professional boundaries.