Washington: Ten Israeli police officers were injured Thursday during violent clashes with hundreds of ultra-Orthodox Jewish protesters in west Jerusalem, according to police reports. The unrest unfolded on Hanna Street after municipal authorities issued a fine, leading protesters to hurl stones and objects at security forces.

According to Anadolu Agency, the protests were triggered by a fine issued to an individual refusing military service. This incident adds to the ongoing tension in Israel following a 2024 Supreme Court ruling that mandates military service for ultra-Orthodox men and halts state funding for religious institutions with students who refuse military service.

The ultra-Orthodox community, known as Haredim, comprises about 13% of Israel's 10 million population. They argue that military service poses a threat to their religious identity and community structure, as their lives are dedicated to Torah study. Prominent rabbis within the community have encouraged followers to reject military drafts and disregard enlistment orders.

Historically, ultra-Orthodox men have evaded military service through deferments for religious study until reaching the exemption age, currently set at 26. Opposition lawmakers have accused Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu of advocating legislation to permanently exempt the Haredim to appease the ultra-Orthodox Shas and United Torah Judaism parties. These parties left the coalition earlier this year but are expected to rejoin if such legislation passes.