Demonstrators from Israel’s ultra-Orthodox (Haredi) community rallied outside the home of the country’s Chief Justice, protesting the arrest of a draft dodger. This protest follows a similar incident earlier this month targeting the home of a deputy to another High Court judge, Noam Sohlberg, which involved rioting. The demonstrations reflect growing Haredi opposition to mandatory military service, a long-standing point of contention in Israeli society. Mass protests have also caused disruptions by blocking major roadways. The incidents represent an escalation in tactics used by Haredi groups to oppose the enforcement of Israel’s draft laws, which require most citizens to serve in the military. Authorities have not yet commented on the latest protest outside the Chief Justice’s residence.
