Protests against the conscription of ultra-Orthodox individuals into the IDF escalated today at the Tel Hashomer military base, resulting in multiple arrests and confrontations with law enforcement.
The demonstrations come in response to recent conscription orders issued to young ultra-Orthodox men, requiring them to report to the recruitment office.
According to police reports, dozens of protesters gathered outside the base Tuesday afternoon. The situation intensified when approximately four demonstrators breached the base's memorial site. Eyewitnesses report that these individuals attempted to physically prevent potential recruits from entering the facility.
Law enforcement officials confirmed that at least seven protesters were taken into custody following the incident. The exact number of arrests and any potential charges are yet to be disclosed.
At approximately 12:00 local time, authorities declared the gathering an illegal demonstration. A statement from the Israel Police noted, "Officers are on site and are working to maintain public order."
The commander of the Mesubim police station issued warnings to the crowd before employing crowd control measures. Despite these warnings, police report that some protesters engaged in disruptive behavior, including attempting to breach security barriers, throwing objects and obstructing vehicle movement by sitting beneath trucks.
In response to these actions, law enforcement utilized mounted units to disperse the crowds.
A police spokesperson emphasized the department's stance on public demonstrations, stating, "Israel Police views the right to protest as a cornerstone of a democratic state and allows protests as long as they are conducted within the law."
The statement continued, "However, the police will not allow any kind of public disturbance or infringement on freedom of movement and any behavior that may endanger public safety."
* Kikar Shabbat contributed to this article.