Ultra-Orthodox protesters attack Israeli soldiers at rally against conscription

Hundreds of ultra-Orthodox Jews participated in a convoy and march through Jerusalem on Sunday, protesting the detention of 63 religious men arrested on suspicion of involvement in riots outside the home of Israel’s deputy Supreme Court president. The demonstration, which began in the town of Beit Shemesh, saw participants carrying placards opposing military conscription and chanting slogans against the Israeli Defence Force. Three soldiers from the Netzah Yehuda battalion, an IDF unit that recruits haredi (ultra-Orthodox) personnel, were attacked by members of the crowd during the march.
The incident reflects rising tensions between Israel’s ultra-Orthodox community and the military over mandatory service. The detainees are suspected of participating in violent disturbances at the residence of Deputy Supreme Court President earlier this week. Ultra-Orthodox communities have long opposed conscription on religious grounds, arguing that military service conflicts with religious study and observance. The three soldiers, who represent the IDF’s efforts to integrate the haredi population into the armed forces, became targets during Sunday’s demonstration, with the crowd also directing objects at police officers attempting to maintain order.

Source: Ynet — Original article in Hebrew.