An 18-year-old boy died Tuesday in Jerusalem after being struck by a bus during a mass demonstration by ultra-Orthodox Jews against military conscription. Israeli police have detained the driver and are investigating the incident.
Protest Turns Deadly
Thousands of ultra-Orthodox Jews took to the streets to protest a law that would conscript them into the Israeli army. The demonstration turned violent, with a small group of protestors reportedly blocking traffic, damaging buses, and clashing with police. Video footage shows a bus driving into the crowd.
According to a police statement, the bus was blocked by protestors before the incident occurred. The driver alleges he was assaulted by rioters prior to the collision.
Political Context
The protests stem from a recent law aiming to address manpower shortages in the Israeli military, which has been engaged in conflict on multiple fronts for two years. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu faces pressure to increase military recruitment, but relies on the support of ultra-Orthodox parties, who traditionally oppose conscription for their constituents.
The ultra-Orthodox community comprises 14% of Israel’s Jewish population. Netanyahu’s governing coalition is currently fragile, holding only 60 of 120 seats in parliament after the United Torah Judaism party left the government in November over a previous conscription bill. Ministers from the Shas party have also resigned from the cabinet over the issue.
Frequently Asked Questions
What prompted the protests?
The protests were in response to a law that would conscript ultra-Orthodox men into the Israeli army.
What is the current status of the driver?
The driver of the bus has been detained by Israeli police and is currently under investigation.
What is the political significance of this event?
The event underscores the political tensions surrounding military conscription and the stability of Prime Minister Netanyahu’s coalition, which relies on the support of ultra-Orthodox parties.
How might this incident impact the ongoing debate surrounding military service requirements in Israel?
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