JERUSALEM (VINnews) — Israel’s Chief Rabbi Kalman Ber issued a strong condemnation Thursday of recent acts of violence and property damage carried out during protests by extremist elements in the ultra-Orthodox community, declaring that such behavior is incompatible with Torah principles.

The statement followed a violent demonstration outside the home of Supreme Court Deputy President Noam Sohlberg, where protesters allegedly damaged property while protesting efforts to increase enforcement against military draft evaders.

In a public letter, Ber warned against using the banner of public protest to justify actions that harm individuals or their property. He said disagreements, even over deeply held religious concerns, must be conducted with restraint and respect.

The chief rabbi emphasized that Jewish law and Torah values require individuals to avoid violence, intimidation and destructive behavior, regardless of the cause being advanced. He argued that the pursuit of religious or ideological goals does not excuse conduct that infringes on the rights and safety of others.

Ber also appealed for calm amid growing tensions surrounding the military conscription debate, urging members of the public to avoid fueling conflict and division. He called on Israelis to focus on shared values and mutual respect rather than deepening social fractures.

The remarks came after government officials, judicial authorities and law enforcement leaders denounced the attack on Sohlberg’s home and called for those responsible to be prosecuted.

Ber concluded by urging all sides to conduct disputes peacefully and in a manner that reflects the Torah’s emphasis on dignity, compassion and harmony.