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IDF Apologizes for Tefillin Denial as Haredi Draft Evader Gets 10 Days in Military Jail

The case underscores stepped-up conscription enforcement, raising questions about detainee rights.

Overview

  • Avraham Ben Dayan, 23, was arrested after a traffic stop in southern Israel flagged him as a draft evader and he was transferred from police to military custody.
  • A military court sentenced him to ten days in detention, and his attorney, Shlomo Hadad, has filed an appeal seeking early release.
  • The IDF said processing delays left him unable to wear tefillin during intake, called the incident exceptional, issued an apology, clarified procedures, and ordered a commanders’ review.
  • Relatives reported conflicting information about his location during transfers between Netivot, Ofakim, and Sde Teiman, and said he was allowed to don tefillin only late in the day.
  • Protests erupted in Ofakim with road blockages, stun grenades, and three arrests, with additional demonstrations in Jerusalem and Beit Shemesh as political and rabbinic figures voiced criticism.