Ultra-Orthodox protesters block roads and trains across Israel over military draft
Ultra-Orthodox protesters in Israel have blocked major roads and transportation hubs to demonstrate against mandatory military conscription. The protests have caused significant civil disruption and are putting pressure on Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's governing coalition.
Why it matters
The conflict over military exemptions highlights deep social and political divisions in Israel, potentially threatening the stability of the current government.
Israeli mounted police disperse Ultra-Orthodox Jews blocking a road during a protest against army draft in Jerusalem on Monday. (Ohad Zwigenberg / Associated Press) By Melanie Lidman and Alon Bernstein June 1, 2026 10:56 AM PT 2 4 min Click here to listen to this article Share via Close extra sharing options Email Facebook X LinkedIn Threads Reddit WhatsApp Copy Link URL Copied! Print 0:00 0:00 1x This is read by an automated voice. Please report any issues or inconsistencies here .
The article reports on the events and the political context neutrally, citing both the protesters' actions and the government's military needs.
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