Israeli Police Drag Ultra-Orthodox Protesters From Streets

Police Crack Down on Protests Against Military Draft

Israeli police clashed with ultra-Orthodox demonstrators in Jerusalem on Tuesday, dragging some protesters from the streets as they attempted to block traffic in a demonstration against a new military draft law.

Thousands of Demonstrators Took to the Streets

Thousands of ultra-Orthodox Jews, known as Haredim, took to the streets of Jerusalem to protest the government's decision to end exemptions from military service for yeshiva students. The new law would require all eligible Haredi men to serve in the Israeli military, a move that has sparked outrage among the community.

Police Used Force to Disperse Protesters

Police responded to the protests with force, dragging some protesters from the streets and arresting others. The protesters set fire to tires and garbage containers, and threw stones at police. Police used water cannons and tear gas to disperse the crowds.

Protests Expected to Continue

The protests are expected to continue in the coming days and weeks, as the Haredi community vows to fight the new law. The government has said it is committed to enforcing the law, but it is unclear how it will deal with the ongoing protests.

Clash Between Religious and Secular Values

The protests highlight the clash between religious and secular values in Israeli society. The Haredi community has long been exempted from military service, citing religious beliefs that prohibit them from serving in the military. However, the government argues that all citizens should share the burden of defending the country.

International Condemnation of Police Violence

The use of force by Israeli police has drawn condemnation from international human rights groups, who accused the police of excessive violence. The United Nations Human Rights Council called on the Israeli government to investigate the use of force and to ensure that protesters are able to exercise their right to peaceful assembly.

Impact on Israeli Politics

The protests are also having an impact on Israeli politics. The ultra-Orthodox parties, which have traditionally been allied with the government, are now threatening to withdraw their support if the government does not reverse the new law.

Uncertain Future for Draft Law

The future of the new draft law is uncertain. The government has said it is committed to enforcing the law, but it is unclear how it will deal with the ongoing protests and the opposition from the Haredi community.