Haredi extremists block major Highway 4 - 7/16/26

Highway 4 was closed in both directions from 4 p.m. until approximately 9 p.m. on Thursday due to a haredi (ultra-Orthodox) protest in Bnei Brak, Israel Police confirmed. A police officer at the scene declared the demonstration illegal, Israel Police confirmed. Protesters at the scene shouted chants towards the police officers, including calling them "antisemites," police added. The closure affected the highway between the Aluf Sade Interchange, south of Ramat Gan, and the Em Hamoshavot Interchange, north of Bnei Brak, police added. At least one officer was wounded after being hit in the head by a bottle. Protesters also threw rocks and other objects at police officers, Israel Police said. In addition, protesters smashed the window of at least one private vehicle. Police arrested at least two protesters throughout the incident.