A total of 46 bnei yeshivah were detained over Shabbos after being classified by the military as failing to comply with enlistment directives, according to IDF figures. The number marks a significant increase in arrests over a short period and comes amid intensified enforcement efforts targeting bnei Torah who have not reported to military recruitment offices.

The arrests have sparked sharp criticism throughout the chareidi world. Rabbanim and public figures described the developments as a serious deterioration in the relationship between the state and the olam haTorah, arguing that bnei yeshivah and avreichei kollel are being placed in detention facilities instead of being allowed to continue their limud haTorah.

Last Thursday, a 26-year-old ben yeshivah was arrested. Following hours of intervention by askanim and chareidi representatives, he was released to his home on Friday, just hours before the onset of Shabbos.

In a separate incident, a ben yeshivah was detained upon arriving at Ben Gurion Airport after returning from an extended period of learning in a yeshivah in the United States. He was subsequently transferred to military authorities for further processing.

Another detainee, 22-year-old ben yeshivah Aviel Cohen of Netivot, a graduate of Yeshivas Be’er HaTalmud, was released before Shabbos. His arrest generated widespread outrage throughout the chareidi community.

Cohen was taken into custody at a gas station near the Gilat Junction while sitting in a vehicle with his wife. His detention prompted demonstrations and a broad public effort by askanim and community activists seeking to secure his release.

Chareidi sources said the growing number of arrests is expected to lead to expanded protest activity in the coming days, including demonstrations and additional measures demanding an end to the detention of bnei yeshivah.

Community representatives warned that “a situation in which dozens of bnei yeshivah are being held in military prison is a warning sign for the entire public,” and expressed concern that the recent wave of arrests could further inflame tensions between the authorities and the olam haTorah.

{Matzav.com}