Violent clashes erupted in Bnei Brak, an ultra-Orthodox city near Tel Aviv, as thousands protested proposed conscription laws that would mandate military service for the ultra-Orthodox community. Video footage captured the tension as police escorted two female IDF soldiers away from the scene while crowds pursued them through the streets.

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Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu condemned these acts, describing the rioters as an “extreme minority” that does not represent the broader haredi community. He asserted, “We will not allow anarchy, nor will we tolerate any harm to IDF servicemen and security forces.”

The protests come amid ongoing tensions over legislation challenging the broad exemptions traditionally granted to the ultra-Orthodox community. Many in Bnei Brak have organized repeated demonstrations, arguing that full-time religious study is their greatest duty, opposing mandatory military enlistment. The issue has reopened deep-seated societal divisions, intensified by Israel’s conflict with Gaza.

On Sunday, the violence intensified, leading to at least 23 arrests. Protesters destroyed a bus, set police motorcycles on fire, and overturned a patrol vehicle. Reports from Ziratnews confirmed that three police officers were injured, while broadcasters covering the events were also attacked.

Netanyahu’s remarks underscored the government’s commitment to maintaining law and order during these disturbances. Approximately 1.3 million ultra-Orthodox Jews make up about 13% of Israel’s population, and the proposed military service changes have sparked significant controversy and debate.

The unrest in Bnei Brak coincided with continued violence in Gaza, where 11 Palestinians were reported killed in Israeli strikes over 24 hours. Among the casualties were five men in Khan Younis. The escalated military actions were confirmed as responses to multiple ceasefire violations.

Tel Aviv District Commander Sargaroff noted that the IDF soldiers in Bnei Brak had not coordinated their visit ahead of time, complicating security efforts in such a tense environment. Police have continued to maintain a strong presence near Jabotinsky Street, aiming to prevent further violence as protestors persist in blocking transport routes. Observers warn that without a resolution, future protests could escalate further and may turn more violent.

Key Takeaways

• Riots over conscription laws result in violent clashes in Bnei Brak.

• Proposed laws challenge traditional military service exemptions for the ultra-Orthodox.

• Government pledges to uphold law and order amid escalating tensions.

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  Adapted by ASEAN Now · Source · 15 Feb 2026

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These people can practice their extremist religious observance only because they know they ultimately have the protection of the IDF and local police.

I wonder if those arrested will be sentenced to an immediate entry into the IDF?

It appears they can take time away from their religious studies to protest.

1 hour ago, Watawattana said:

I wonder if those arrested will be sentenced to an immediate entry into the IDF?

Would the IDF, or any army for that matter, want conscripts like this?

Time to abolish conscription, if not the brutal, brainwashed IDF itself. If young people aren't eager to join, why force them?

Yes, Zionists and Haredi are fanatics, so leave them alone!

3 hours ago, stevenl said:

Would the IDF, or any army for that matter, want conscripts like this?

Russian?

Weird the ultra-orthodox. You would think with a genocide going on they would want to be part of the action.

2 hours ago, Autocan said:

Weird the ultra-orthodox. You would think with a genocide going on they would want to be part of the action.

A significant percentage of Orthodox Jews are anti-Zionist.

It was mainly observant Jews who coexisted with Arabs for hundreds of years in many countries before the advent of Zionism.

Seems every religion has it's " nuts" !

9 hours ago, Jim Blue said:

Seems every religion has it's " nuts" !

That depends on how you define "nuts".

In this case, I would say the real meshugas are the radical Zionists who have laid waste to Gaza and are in the process of ethnically cleansing the West Bank.

All in the name of Eretz Israel inspired by the silly fables in their holy books.

Talk about "nuts" - that takes the cake.

On 2/17/2026 at 11:50 PM, Jim Blue said:

Seems every religion has it's " nuts" !

Indeed.

It's all about per capita.