Ultra-Orthodox protesters blocked Highway 4, a major artery in central Israel’s Gush Dan region, during peak morning rush hour. The disruption, near the entrance to Bnei Brak, stemmed from a demonstration against the arrest of a religious deserter. The “Jerusalem Faction,” a particularly hardline group within the ultra-Orthodox community, claimed responsibility for the blockade. Traffic was severely impacted, causing significant delays for commuters. Police intervened to clear the road and restore traffic flow, resulting in minor scuffles and several arrests. The protest highlights ongoing tensions between ultra-Orthodox groups and Israeli authorities regarding military service and religious observance.