Israeli Police Use Dye Water Cannons on Ultra-Orthodox Protesters in Al-Quds

AL-QUDS — Israeli riot police deployed blue-dye water cannons against ultra-Orthodox Jewish demonstrators on Wednesday, dispersing a large-scale protest against the government's military draft expansion.

The confrontation occurred in the occupied Al-Quds district shortly after 5:10 p.m. local time. Police units advanced on crowds of protesters who had gathered to oppose the Israeli regime's recent legislative moves to include ultra-Orthodox men in mandatory military service. As the demonstration intensified, officers activated water cannons filled with a blue dye solution, coating dozens of demonstrators in the substance.

The protest was part of a broader wave of civil unrest triggered by the draft legislation. Ultra-Orthodox communities have long been exempt from military service, a policy that has recently become a focal point of national debate. The government argues that the exemption creates an unfair burden on other citizens, while religious leaders contend that full-time Torah study is a vital national service that should remain protected.

Witnesses described a chaotic scene as police lines moved through the streets, spraying the dye to mark and disperse the crowd. The blue liquid stained clothing and skin, creating a stark visual contrast against the traditional black coats and hats worn by many of the protesters. Emergency medical personnel were seen attending to individuals who appeared to have suffered minor injuries from the water pressure or the ensuing scuffles.

Police officials stated that the use of dye water was a standard crowd-control measure intended to identify participants and break up unlawful assemblies. They emphasized that the action was taken after repeated warnings were ignored and the protest turned violent. Authorities reported that several arrests were made during the dispersal operation, though specific numbers were not immediately released.

Protest organizers condemned the police response, calling it an excessive use of force against a peaceful assembly. They vowed to continue demonstrations until the draft legislation is repealed. The incident has reignited tensions between the state and ultra-Orthodox communities, raising questions about the future of the exemption policy and the methods used to enforce compliance.

As of late Wednesday, the streets in Al-Quds remained cordoned off as investigators assessed the aftermath of the clash. It remains unclear whether further protests are planned for the coming days or if the government will adjust its enforcement strategy in response to the public outcry. The situation continues to develop as both sides prepare for potential escalation.