Ultra-Orthodox protesters block roads and trains across Israel over military draft
Tens of thousands of ultra-Orthodox Jews protested across Israel against mandatory military enlistment. The demonstrations led to major disruptions, including blocked roads and halted public transportation. The protests have intensified political tensions, potentially threatening Prime Minister Netanyahu's coalition government.
- ▪Ultra-Orthodox protesters blocked major intersections and set cars on fire during the demonstrations.
- ▪The protests are a response to the threat against exemptions that allow ultra-Orthodox men to avoid military service.
- ▪Israel's military is facing severe shortages of soldiers, prompting discussions about extending mandatory service.
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Middle East Ultra-Orthodox protesters block roads and trains across Israel over military draft June 2, 20263:55 AM ET By The Associated Press Israeli mounted police disperse Ultra-Orthodox Jews blocking a road during a protest against army draft in Jerusalem, Monday, June 1, 2026. Ohad Zwigenberg/AP hide caption toggle caption Ohad Zwigenberg/AP JERUSALEM — Tens of thousands of ultra-Orthodox demonstrated across Israel on Monday, blocking roads and trains and setting cars on fire to protest mandatory enlistment in Israel's military. Middle East conflict Israel's government is expected to collapse over ultra-Orthodox military draft Israel's police said demonstrators blocked major intersections and attacked a soldier who disembarked from a bus near a protest.
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