Ultra-Orthodox soldier assaulted by Haredim in Jerusalem

A group of ultra-Orthodox men are suspected of assaulting a Haredi soldier in Jerusalem Sunday evening.

The men reportedly circled the soldier’s vehicle, blocked his path and knocked his kippa off his head.

Police officers who arrived on the scene broke up the encounter and launched an investigation into the attack. The soldier did not require medical attention.

The incident took place amid heightened tension in the ultra-Orthodox community over proposed legislation that seeks to conscript ultra-Orthodox men into military or national service. For some in the ultra-Orthodox community, members who agree to serve in the military are traitors to religious values.

The IDF has set up special units to enable religious men to serve without compromising their religious practices.