Tel Aviv Tensions: Haredi Draft Dispute Ignites Protest

Clashes erupt in Tel Aviv as hundreds of Orthodox Jews protest against the enlistment of Haredim into the Israeli army. The demonstration, led by the Jerusalem Faction, saw protesters blocking roads and confronting Haredi soldiers outside a recruitment center, intensifying ongoing debates about military conscription and exemptions.

In a dramatic escalation over plans to draft Haredi Jews into the military, hundreds of Orthodox protesters took to the streets in Tel Aviv, obstructing a key road to the Israel Defense Forces' main recruitment center.

The clash outside the Tel Hashomer recruitment center turned violent as demonstrators assailed Haredi soldiers, labeling them "traitors" and clashing with law enforcement. "I am not fazed by this," one targeted soldier told The Press Service of Israel, citing family service history.

Defense Minister Israel Katz announced plans to gradually increase Haredi conscription rates with a goal of 50% by 2032. Katz's proposal comes amid political turmoil, with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu leaving a hospital stay to vote on related legislation.

(With inputs from agencies.)