Ultra-Orthodox Protesters Block Highway Over Military Draft Arrest

Dozens of ultra-Orthodox Jewish men blocked a major highway near Tel Aviv on Tuesday. The protest was against the recent arrest of a community member for evading mandatory military service. The demonstrators brought traffic to a standstill on Route 4, a key commuter route. They argue that serving in the Israeli military threatens their religious identity and close-knit community structure. In Israel, military service is compulsory for most Jewish citizens. However, ultra-Orthodox, or "Haredi," men have historically received exemptions to study in religious seminaries. This long-standing policy is increasingly controversial. Critics call it unfair, while supporters see it as essential for preserving Haredi tradition. The protest highlights growing tensions over the issue. It follows renewed government efforts to enforce draft laws within the ultra-Orthodox community.