Ultra-Orthodox Jerusalem Faction Blocks Major Israeli Highways in Chaotic Protest Over Haredi Draft Arrests – Yellow Star Patches Spark Controversy

Ultra-Orthodox protesters from the Jerusalem Faction have caused significant disruptions in Israel by closing sections of Highway 4 from Em HaMoshavot southward and Givat Shmuel northward, along with completely blocking the Jabotinsky-Geha intersection near Bnei Brak. The demonstration involved young Haredi men sitting in the roadway, some wearing yellow Star of David patches, as police worked to manage the crowd amid visible protest signs and occasional physical confrontations. This latest action is part of ongoing efforts opposing the arrests of yeshiva students evading mandatory military conscription and broader Haredi draft policies.